A self-described multidisciplinary arts and culture centre, the GoDown Arts Centre in Nairobi is a place where art and urbanity come to play. From its free community yoga sessions to its dedication to displaying the best of contemporary Kenyan art, GoDdown has cemented itself as a beating pulse of creativity in Kenya’s capital.
Though now a thriving space for expression, GoDown began as a car repair warehouse located in Nairobi’s Industrial Area – a fact that informed its unmistakable name. It was only in 2003 that the site transitioned into the home for local artists we know today thanks to the visionary Joy Mboya. Having acquired a creative background through a musical journey that saw her pursue voice studies in Australia and singing in a Nairobi band, she longed to establish a home in Kenya for expressive souls such as herself. Securing funding from the Ford Foundation, Joy set up what is now one of the largest multidisciplinary spaces for the arts in East Africa.
At the heart of the GoDown Arts Centre’s mission is the promotion of artistic and cultural expression. The centre offers a welcoming space for artists, both emerging and established, to explore and exhibit visual arts, theatre, music, dance, and literature. The centre has been a driver of impactful displays of Kenyan culture such as the Nai Ni Who Festival which profoundly explored the fabric of our capital city. Art contests held by the centre such as Manjano have also been invaluable for encouraging youth and women artists to submit their work. In addition, GoDown has been instrumental in training and providing subsidised studios for these passionate individuals.
Perhaps one of the most visible ways in which the GoDown Arts Centre preserves Kenyan culture is through its art exhibitions. These exhibitions serve as windows into the diverse narratives that define Kenya. From contemporary interpretations of traditional art forms to thought-provoking installations, these showcases breathe life into Kenya’s cultural heritage.
For the Godown Arts Centre, cultural preservation is not confined to its physical space; it extends to the community it serves. The centre actively engages with local communities through outreach programs, cultural education, and collaborative projects. This engagement fosters a sense of ownership of culture among the people and empowers Kenyans to be the custodians of their heritage. By doing so, the centre’s message is clear – art is not just for a select few but for all of us.
In some ways, the GoDown’s story is just beginning. In 2017 the center shared it would be embarking on a new ambitious evolution that would result in a permanent four story structure that would house new spaces. A library, museum and galleries are just some of the expanded facilities the centre has in store. As construction and fundraising occurs, the centre’s wonderful community events can be enjoyed at their base in Kilimani.
The Godown Arts Centre in Nairobi stands as a beacon of commitment to the preservation and celebration of Kenyan voices, imagination and artistic prosperity. With a diverse range of creative initiatives, the Godown Arts Centre plays a pivotal role in storing and safeguarding Kenyan culture for generations to come.