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Multicolor woodcut artist Fred Kato Mutebi
has long used his artistry to convey the
fragility of the human condition in Africa
and to celebrate the natural beauty of Uganda,
his homeland. Using a vibrant array of colors,
the artist creates woodcut prints that depict
stories about critical social events in
Uganda or that portray images indigenous
to the Ugandan environment. The works are
made even more authentic by the artist's
use of a special technique called the "progressive
reduction method," which prevents the
production of more than 10woodcut prints
of the same composition.
As a Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence at
Christian Brothers University in Memphis,
Tennessee, Mutebi played an integral role
in imparting an appreciation for this particular
art form and a passion for the country called
"the pearl of Africa."
From lecturing on the history of art in
Uganda and the history of printmaking, to
conducting a woodcut printmaking workshop
and a laboratory session for chemistry and
art students, Mutebi, who has exhibited
throughout Europe and Africa, introduced
a new medium of expression to a welcoming
audience.
"Since this was my first time visiting
the United States and the longest I have
been away from home, I felt that Christian
Brothers University was my home away from
home. This was due to the spirit of friendliness,
love and care that the university offered,"
said Mutebi.
In addition to Christian Brothers University,
Mutebi also conducted workshops at the University
of the South-Sewanee, the University of
Colorado, Vanderbilt University, Fisk University,
Memphis College of Art, Lausanne School,
Lamplight School and Hope House.
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