Stylenerds, grab your passports to culture — we went to the inaugural Nomadic Arts Festival at the Oshwal Centre, and let’s just say, Northern Kenya brought the heat! From mesmerizing traditional rhythms to contemporary beats, this one-night-only event redefined fusion and left us with hearts full and feet sore (from dancing, of course).
Here’s the lowdown on an unforgettable evening that bridged tradition and modernity in spectacular style:
Opening the Doors to Northern Kenya’s Vibrance
Picture this: the Oshwal Centre buzzing with excitement as Nairobi locals mingled with cultural ambassadors from Northern Kenya. The night kicked off with an ethereal performance by the Turkana Sessions Orchestra, whose mix of traditional instruments and modern sounds set the tone for an evening of connection and collaboration.
The Turkana Sessions, brainchild of Content House Kenya, transported us to the shores of Lake Turkana with every note. These aren’t just songs—they’re stories, living and breathing pieces of a region rich in culture yet often overlooked. And the cherry on top? A special appearance by Eddie Grey, who elevated the Turkana vibe with his jazz-infused guitar magic.
When Tradition Meets Pop Magic
As if the Turkana Sessions weren’t enough to make our hearts swell, the festival lineup also included some of Nairobi’s trendiest pop acts. The collaboration between artists from Northern Kenya and Nairobi was seamless, each performance blurring the lines between what’s considered traditional and modern. The result? A new genre of music that we’re dubbing “Nomadic Chic”
We had quite the lineup of entertainment set for us, even the ambassador of Germany treated us to some piano playing which was quite enjoyable. It was interesting to hear how one artist fused his music with house music; very innovative!
We were also treated to the vocals of Mourine Apuu and the raw energy of Jackson Nakuwa and many other artists from different Nomadic parts of Kenya. Each artist brought their A-game. And when they performed together? Pure magic. It felt like the music itself was a bridge, connecting the untamed beauty of Turkana to the urban buzz of Nairobi.
Beyond the Beats: A Marketplace of Wonders
True to its name, the Nomadic Arts Festival wasn’t just about the music. A small marketplace set up within the venue showcased artisans from Northern Kenya, offering everything from intricate beadwork to handcrafted home goods. It was the perfect opportunity to snag unique gifts while supporting local businesses. Talk about shopping with a purpose!
A Vision Decades in the Making
Jackie Lebo, the powerhouse CEO of Content House Kenya, summed it up best: “This festival is the culmination of 10 years of work in Northern Kenya.” From documenting the region’s natural resources to creating the Turkana Artists Xchange project, Content House has been building this bridge for a decade. And now, with the Nomadic Arts Festival, they’ve created a platform that’s as dynamic as it is transformative.
Why This Festival Matters
Northern Kenya’s artistic and cultural heritage is too rich to remain a hidden gem. By bringing these talents to Nairobi, the Nomadic Arts Festival is not just celebrating art; it’s creating economic opportunities, fostering connections, and ensuring that these traditions endure for generations to come. Plus, it’s introducing a whole new audience to the beauty of blending cultures.
Don’t Miss the Next One!
If you weren’t there, don’t sweat it—the Nomadic Arts Festival is set to be an annual event. And trust us, this is one ticket you’ll want to snag early. Keep an eye on @nomadicartsfestival for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and maybe even a few giveaways.
Until then, we’ll be replaying the Turkana Sessions playlist on loop and dreaming of next year’s cultural odyssey. Nomadic Arts Festival, you’ve set the bar—and it’s sky-high.
