Attention Kenyan Musicians! Applications for OneBeat 2013, Now Open [From Dec. 17 2012]

OneBeat is open to musicians ages 19-35, who demonstrate both an advanced proficiency in their musical work, an interest in cross-genre collaboration, and experience with or interest in developing strategies to use music as a way to improve their communities. If you are an adventurous, socially-committed young musician looking for a chance to collaborate with other like-minded musicians from around the world, please consider applying!

Program Overview: September 9 – October 6, 2013
OneBeat is an international cultural exchange that celebrates the transformative power of the arts through the creation of original, inventive music, and people-to-people diplomacy. In the fall of 2013, approximately 25 musicians (ages 19-35) from around the world will come together in the U.S. for four weeks to collaboratively write, produce, and perform original music, and develop ways that music can make a positive impact on our local and global communities.
OneBeat 2013 will take place from September 9 to October 6, and is divided into two segments, a residency and a tour. During the residency, OneBeat Fellows will spend two weeks at the Atlantic Center for the Arts in central Florida, immersed in a process of collaborative music creation and experimentation. During the two-week tour, OneBeat ensembles will collaborate with local musicians to give public performances and lead workshops with youth and community groups. OneBeat Fellows will also work with a diverse group of expert Collaborating Artists— including luminaries of classical music, hip-hop, jazz and more—to develop and deepen the scope of their collaborative work.

Eligibility
OneBeat is open to musicians ages 19-35, who demonstrate both an advanced proficiency in their musical work, an interest in cross-genre collaboration, and experience with or interest in developing strategies to use music as a way to improve their communities.

Eligible Countries
In this second year of the program, applications are open to musicians who are both residents and citizens of the following countries:
Bangladesh, Bolivia, Burma, Cambodia, China, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Egypt, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Mozambique, Nigeria, Norway, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Senegal, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, United States, Venezuela, Vietnam.

Important Information for Applicants
We are glad that you are interested in applying to be a 2013 OneBeat Fellow! To prepare for the 2013 application potential applicants should plan to write about their musical background and interests as well as future projects and goals. Potential applicants will submit 3-5 solo and collaborative samples of their work (both audio and video are accepted).

Here are a few important things to know when applying for OneBeat:

1) Musicians from all musical backgrounds are welcome. Musicians from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, with or without formal musical training, from all genres, including but not limited to: hip hop, traditional, experimental, electronic, jazz, classical, sound design, beat-making, multimedia art, or any combination of these styles. In additional to full-time professional musicians, we also invite adventurous musicians who double as community organizers, instrument builders, writers, videographers, musicologists, educators, storytellers, dancers, shadow-puppeteers, and more.
2) Collaboration is central. OneBeat offers musicians the opportunity to collaborate on new projects, and to explore new musical traditions. Rather than simply showcasing solo talent, OneBeat is meant for musicians to work together across across stylistic and cultural divides in the pursuit of new musical possibilities.
3) OneBeat is socially engaged. We are particularly looking for musicians who have a strong commitment to their communities and who are seeking new ways to engage in youth development, music education, music therapy, conflict resolution, and other musical ways of working towards more egalitarian and democratic societies.
4) OneBeat is a FREE program! (but not a paying gig) OneBeat is a free fellowship program, with all Fellows’ travel, transportation, food, and lodging costs covered. We also offer Fellows a modest stipend, as well as a per diem to cover food and other expenses while on tour. While we are not able to pay Fellows performance fees, OneBeat will offer Fellows a lot of visibility, as well as the chance to create new material, establish lifelong musical partnerships, learn new marketable skills, and develop professional connections.

Review Criteria
1. Musical Excellence – A high level of performance, composition, improvisational, production and/or technological skill. Ideally OneBeat musicians will be innovating either stylistically, lyrically, or technologically within their musical worlds.
2. Collaboration — Applicants’ willingness to cross cultural and musical divides in creating original music, or re-interpreting traditional music, while respecting the essence of each tradition.
3. Social Engagement – Musicians who have used music to serve their communities or greater societies. This might consist of starting a music school, promoting peace and democracy through musical content, reviving dying musical traditions, and more.
4. English Proficiency – Applicants should be able to converse in basic English, as it will be the common language of all OneBeat Fellows. Interpreters will be provided during the first and last days of the program if necessary.
5. Internet Proficiency – When possible, OneBeat Fellows should actively use email and be able to connect to the internet to participate in OneBeat website-based activities.

OneBeatSM is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and produced by Bang on A Can’s Found Sound Nation.

Full info available here: http://www.1beat.org/2013apply/

New Video Alert! Sta.ka.to by Kato Change ft. Lisa Noah & Jaaz Odongo

Sta.ka.to is an Afro-House, rhythm and funk which has been skillfully blended in Kato Change’s new single; “Sta.Ka.To.”

Kato’s charming guitar tunes fuse with Lisa Noah’s silky voice, creating an enchanting sound that reverberates through the soul. The single is enriched by the masterpieces of music producer Jaaz Odongo, and the videography of Magiq Lens.

Diversity is well represented in the video, which is centered on Kato’s trademark hat. People of different backgrounds wear the hat, which is shared and experienced in a similar way to music.

The song leaves you to question what brilliant talent, freedom and unity cannot achieve.

New Single Alert! @NiNanjira’s Debut Single – Walking produced by @Jusblackman

Walking is NiNanjira début single as a solo musician. This single was released a week ago.

Walking is written and produced by Blackman whom Nanjira is working with for the début solo EP. This EP is set for release early next year.

Have a listen and give your feedback

Concert: Incognito Live in Nairobi, Dec. 16 2012 @ Bomas of Kenya

The New Millenium Collection Cover

Date: December 16, 2012
Venue: Bomas of Kenya
Tickets: Kshs 3000 regular & Kshs 5000 VIP on sale at Sierra Brasserie

Opportunities/Call for Applications: UNESCO- Aschberg Bursaries for Artists Programme

The UNESCO-Aschberg Bursaries for Artists Programme announces the 2013 call for applications.

The programme promotes the mobility of young artists through art residencies abroad. This call is open to creative writers’ musicians and visual artists between 25 and 35 years old.

To consult the list of bursaries available for 2013 please visit the website at http://www.unesco.org/new/en/culture/themes/creativity/aschberg-bursaries-for-artists. You will find direct links to institutions and instructions on the application procedures and necessary dates.

Here is the direct link: http://www.unesco.org/new/en/culture/themes/creativity/aschberg-bursaries-for-artists/call-for-applications-2013/#c345283

New Single Alert! African Hustle by Mzungu Kichaa ft Dela from their EP – Hustle to be released in Dec. 1 2012

Mzungu Kichaa releases new single African Hustle featuring Kenyan songstress Dela.
The song is the first single from his EP titled Hustle to be released on the 1st of December 2012. This release marks the start of a long‐term partnership between Tanzanian Caravan Records & Penya Africa.

African Hustle is a positive message about working hard with what you have. This is Mzungu Kichaa’s first release since the release of his début album in 2009, which won him an award at the African Achievement Awards. Since the release of his first album Tuko Pamoja, Mzungu Kichaa has been performing extensively in East Africa and met Dela during a visit to Nairobi. He later invited Dela to Dar es Salaam to perform at the Beat Festival, during which they recorded African Hustle at his studio Caravan Records. The collaboration marks an important step to build relationships between artists across the borders and to create a stronger East African music industry. Dela and Mzungu Kichaa are shooting a video for the song in Nairobi, to be released soon.

Mzungu Kichaa has often described Dela as one of his favorite East African artists, so it is not surprising that he took the necessary steps to realize this collaboration. Dela is signed to Penya Africa where she has released her debut album, “Paukwa” and worked with various artists including Sauti Sol on hits like Mama Papa.

African Hustle will be available on iTunes and other online platforms. Listen here

New Single Alert! Listen to Sauti Sol’s New Single – Money Lover

Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon 2012, Road Closures & Traffic Diversions, Oct. 27-28 2012

Dates: October 27-28, 2012
Time: Various roads have various times

Visit this site for more information on the road closures & traffic diversions

Opinion: The selection of three fellows for 1beat Program is evidence of #Kenya’s rising status as a cultural hub

The tour dates Sept. 10-Oct. 7, 2012

What happens when you bring musicians from different continents in one country for a tour and residency program? Well, you have yourself smart power and that is what the United States of America has been up to of late. This is through the 1beat program that brought together 32 fellows from 21 countries to the US for tours and residency program.
What is 1beat?

OneBeat 2012 from Found Sound Nation on Vimeo.

OneBeatSM is an international music exchange that celebrates musical collaboration and social engagement through innovative people-to-people diplomacy. From September 10 – October 7, a group of exceptional young musicians from around the world will collaboratively write, record, produce, and perform original music in venues ranging from concert halls to city parks to rock clubs. In addition to creating new work, OneBeat Fellows will partner with community organizations, schools, and socially-engaged local musicians to offer workshops, performances, and public dialogues.

Ambassadors of Soft Power
Kenya is a bastion of sports especially track races and marathons but what is now emerging is that Kenya is also rising as a cultural hub. This is evident in selection of three musicians from Kenya out of the eight who represented Africa. The musicians who represented Kenya are;
1. Nina Ogot
2. Muthoni the Drummer Queen and
3. Kato Change
Other African countries represented are Democratic Republic of Congo (with two musicians), Nigeria, Mozambique and Senegal each with one representative.

NairobiNow takes this opportunity to congratulate these Kenyan trailblazers and wish them all the best in their endeavours.

NairobiNow celebrates Bonifacemwangi: Recipient of 2012 Prince Claus Award

Photo by Allan Gichigi: http://www.allangichigi.com

NairobiNow wishes to congratulate Boniface Mwangi for being a recipient of Prince Claus Award 2012. We take note of his ground breaking achievements and wish him all the best in his endeavors.

Excerpt from Prince Claus Awards Committee

Boniface Mwangi is awarded for his evocative photographs on challenging social issues; for creating a powerful new approach to processes of community and communal self-reflection and dialogue; for highlighting the importance of direct grassroots interaction to achieve post-conflict reconciliation; and for his brave efforts to reduce violence and build peace through culture.

About The Prince Claus Awards
The Prince Claus Awards honors outstanding achievements in the field of culture and development. The awards are presented annually to individuals, groups, organisations or institutions whose cultural actions have a wide and positive impact on the development of their societies.

Download report from the 2012 Prince Claus Award Committee: 2012 PCF JR English1

Premier: Marley, Sept. 7 2012 @Starflix Prestige Plaza

Date: September 7, 2012
Venue: Starflix, Prestige Plaza [Ngong Road]
Time: 8.30pm for 9pm
Tickets: Kshs 400

About
MARLEY, is a documentary on the life, music, and legacy of Bob Marley

Bob Marley’s universal appeal, impact on music history and role as a social and political prophet is both unique and unparalleled.
MARLEY is the definitive life story of the musician, revolutionary, and legend, from his early days to his rise to international superstardom. Made with the support of the Marley family, the film features rare footage, incredible performances and revelatory interviews with the people that knew him best.

The film is directed by Kevin McDonald (Last King of Scotland, One Day in September) and it stars Bob Marley, Ziggy Marley and Jimmy Cliff among others.

An ambitious and comprehensive film, does what is probably the best possible job of documenting an important life – Robert Ebert Chicago Sun Times

[Updated] Call for submissions: Experience Nairobi 2013, Until Sept. 28 2012

Background
The GoDown Arts Centre has been engaging various city stakeholders on the topic of the City of Nairobi, around the theme “Conceiving a World Class African Metropolis,” (Vision 2030 Nairobi Metropolitan Area).
The objective of these engagements has been to draw out themes of primary interest and importance with a view to translating/interpreting these into a tangible a project that illuminates the many different angles of the city, as understood through the diverse lenses of its inhabitants.
Participating in these discussions with the GoDown have been architects, urban designers, policy makers, city residents, businesses, college students, academics, visual and performing artists, literary writers, and journalists.

Call for Submissions
The GoDown now seeks concept submissions from:

CATEGORY I – Artists and Creatives: Performing & Visual Artists; Architects; Design & Architecture Students, and Scholars Of Architecture, Urban Design & Planning.

CATEGORY II – City Interest Groups: Residents Associations, Businesses, Bloggers, Nairobi Magazines & Publications, City Planners & Policy- Makers; Urban Sociologists and Historians.

Themes
1. The physical city
2. Identity, belonging and social constructions in the city
3. Trade and commerce
4. African city naissance

The Concept
To be presented on no more than three (3) A4 typed sheets of 12 pt font size. Indicate any research and resources the idea may require. As selected proposals may be given an opportunity to test their project, the written submission should also give indication of any aspect of the proposal that may require experimental testing.

Selected submissions shall be facilitated for further development and will later be packaged and presented in EXPERIENCE NAIROBI 2013, a multi-sector, multi-disciplinary showcase of the City through exhibition, performance, installations, visual, audio-visual and digital expressions.

EXPERIENCE NAIROBI 2013 will run from May-July 2013

Deadline for submission of concepts: September 28, 2012
Time: 4pm

Download details of the call for submissions: GODOWN CALL – EXPERIENCE NAIROBI 2013

For more information: http://experiencenairobi.wordpress.com/ and Facebook page

Photography: The #Kenya365 Instagram Project, Sept. 1 2012-Aug. 31 2013 by @whiteafrican, @truthslinger & @estoni

For more information on how to join this project: Read Erik Hersman Blog

Watch: Sauti Sol Documentary ‘Voices of the Sun’ by Lebogang Rasethaba

This is a documentary by Lebogang Rasethaba which seeks to explore and unpack the notion of ‘new music’. This documentary also offers some ‘behind the scenes’ of Spoek Mathambo and Sauti Sol in studio working on their new EP.

Call for submissions: Experience Nairobi 2013, Until Aug. 31 2012

Background
The GoDown Arts Centre has been engaging various city stakeholders on the topic of the City of Nairobi, around the theme “Conceiving a World Class African Metropolis,” (Vision 2030 Nairobi Metropolitan Area).
The objective of these engagements has been to draw out themes of primary interest and importance with a view to translating/interpreting these into a tangible a project that illuminates the many different angles of the city, as understood through the diverse lenses of its inhabitants.
Participating in these discussions with the GoDown have been architects, urban designers, policy makers, city residents, businesses, college students, academics, visual and performing artists, literary writers, and journalists.

Call for Submissions
The GoDown now seeks concept submissions from:

CATEGORY I – Artists and Creatives: Performing & Visual Artists; Architects; Design & Architecture Students, and Scholars Of Architecture, Urban Design & Planning.

CATEGORY II – City Interest Groups: Residents Associations, Businesses, Bloggers, Nairobi Magazines & Publications, City Planners & Policy- Makers; Urban Sociologists and Historians.

Themes
1. The physical city
2. Identity, belonging and social constructions in the city
3. Trade and commerce
4. African city naissance

The Concept
To be presented on no more than three (3) A4 typed sheets of 12 pt font size. Indicate any research and resources the idea may require. As selected proposals may be given an opportunity to test their project, the written submission should also give indication of any aspect of the proposal that may require experimental testing.

Selected submissions shall be facilitated for further development and will later be packaged and presented in EXPERIENCE NAIROBI 2013, a multi-sector, multi-disciplinary showcase of the City through exhibition, performance, installations, visual, audio-visual and digital expressions.

EXPERIENCE NAIROBI 2013 will run from May-July 2013

Deadline for submission of concepts: August 31, 2012
Time: 4pm

Download details of the call for submissions: GODOWN CALL – EXPERIENCE NAIROBI 2013

[Deadline Extended] Call for Submissions: Kwani? Manuscript Project, Until Sept. 17 2012

To celebrate the African novel and its adaptability and resilience, Kwani Trust announces a one-off new literary prize for African writing.

The Kwani? Manuscript Project calls for the submission of unpublished fiction manuscripts from African writers across the continent and in the Diaspora. The prize seeks fresh, original work that explores and challenges the possibilities of the novel.

The top 3 manuscripts will be awarded cash prizes:
1st Prize: 300,000 KShs (equivalent to $3500)
2nd Prize: 150,000 KShs
3rd Prize: 75,000 KShs

In addition Kwani? will publish manuscripts from across the shortlist and longlist, including the three winning manuscripts, as well as partnering with regional and global agents and publishing houses to create high profile international publication opportunities.

Winners will be announced in December 2012 at the Kwani? Litfest.

For more information go to: http://manuscript.kwani.org/

Submission Guidelines:
• Extended deadline for submissions: 17th September 2012.
• Word count 45,000-120,000 words
• Submissions should be adult literary or genre fiction (in the sense of not being ‘children’s fiction’)
• The work should be in English or ‘Englishes’
• The manuscript must be ‘new’ in the sense that it is ‘unpublished in book form’ (we will accept previously
published submissions if circulation has been under 500 copies and limited to one national territory)
• Eligible participants should have at least one parent born in an African country who holds citizenship of the same
• Please send submissions by email, attached as a WORD doc to manuscript@kwani.org

This Kwani? Manuscript Project is made possible by the generous support of Lambent Foundation and Ford Foundation.

The Kwani? Manuscript Project was initially conceptualised after Kwani Trust received the Prince Claus Award in December 2010 for “establishing a dynamic platform for new voices in African Literature.” The award has provided seed money for this prize.

Follow Kwani on Twitter : @kwanitrust
Join Kwani on Facebook : www.facebook.com/kwanitrust

Adventure/Extreme Sports: The Rhino Charge, Jun. 1-3 2012 @ TBA*

One of the most exciting events in Kenya, The Rhino Charge is set to take place on June 1-3, 2012.

This event is popular for its activities which involve what is seen as bravery, high level skill in off road driving and navigation. The experience for both the participants and spectators is not only exciting but heightens the adrenaline as the 4 wheel drive vehicles navigate across and compete on vehicle performance when it comes to enduring tough terrain.

The event is organized by The Rhino Ark Charitable Trust mainly to raise proceeds towards conservation of Kenya’s Aberdare Ecosystem.

The check-in is at the Braeburn Primary School, Nanyuki.

*TBA-To be announced: Directions to the Rhino Charge venue will then be issued from there.

BAKE Blog Awards: Vote for your favourite blog by May 3 2012

The BAKE Blog Awards has been set up by the blogging fraternity to rewards bloggers that post on a regular basis, have great and useful content, are creative and innovative.

These awards represent BAKE’s efforts in the promotion of quality and content creation.

Key timelines on the Blog Awards
1. Submissions
These were held from March 15-29, 2012. BAKE was accepting submissions in the competition’s 14 categories.
2. Short listing by Judges [the Best 5 in each category]
From March 29-April 9, 2012 judges comprising of bloggers and media experts decided on the 5 blogs that advanced to the next round in all 14 categories.
These are the blogs that are in the running to win a BAKE blog award.
3. Online voting
The ballot box was opened on April 10 and will close on May 3, 2012. This is the link for voting for your favourite blog. http://bloggers.or.ke/voting/
4. And the winner is…
The winners will be announced at a gala event to be held on May 5, 2012 at a hotel in Nairobi

Some of the sponsors who have made this a reality: Safaricom, Capital FM, Samsung, Google, ICT Board, Serena Hotels & Virtual City.

BAKE Contacts
Email: info@bake.or.ke, Facebook or Twitter
Hashtag: #BAKEawards

PS: Bloggers are reminded that to attend this event they MUST RSVP early to assist in preparation logistics.

Invitation to participate in Kenya visual artists networking exhibition, May 22- Jul. 22 2012 @ Nairobi Gallery

The Non State Actors Support Programme (NSA – NET) is a democratic governance capacity building programme which seeks to enhance the role of civil society and cultural actors in the development process. The Programme is implemented by the Ministry of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs with financing from the European Union through the 9th European Development Fund (9th EDF).

NSA – NET in collaboration with the National Museum of Kenya [NMK] and in consultation with visual artists have organised an exhibition dubbed “Power of unity: creating a vital voice for artists to influence good governance” The main objective of this initiative is to enable the artists to create a platform / forum in which they can continuously use to articulate issues affecting them as a discipline. The exhibition will serve three purposes, namely:

1. To provide an opportunity for artists to show case their work, specifically reflecting their interpretation of the networking/unity theme;
2. To provide an opportunity for visual artist to discuss and endorse the formation of a visual artists network; and
3. To officially launch the visual artists network.

The exhibition is open to all visual artists and is scheduled to take place at The Nairobi Gallery, National Museums of Kenya starting 22nd May 2012 and run up to the 22nd July 2012.

All participating artists are expected to fulfil the following eligibility criteria to participate in the networking exhibition:

• The artist must be 25 years of age and above;
• He / she must be a practicing artist and has participated in at least 5 exhibitions locally and internationally;
• Every artist will be required to submit one piece of artwork whose specifications are 100cm by 100cm for the largest piece, and 25cm by 25cm (quarter of the same) for the smallest;
• The artwork should address either of the three good governance themes, namely: promotion of public participation, promotion of peaceful co-existence and promotion of effective service delivery;
• The artwork should be delivered to the Nairobi gallery ready for hanging latest on 23rd or 24th April 2012 not earlier or later;
• The artist will be required to surrender to the gallery, 30% as commission from the proceeds of their sales during the exhibition period; and
• All the unsold artwork at the end of the exhibition should be collected by the 24th July 2012. The uncollected artwork within the designated time will be considered a donation to the Museum.

Click this link to download artist-questionnaire (pdf), which should be duly completed and submitted to The Nairobi Gallery (old PC office), National Museums of Kenya, clearly marked visual artist exhibition by 5th April 2012.

All enquires on the exhibition should be directed to Lydia G. Galavu, email: lgatundu@museums.or.ke or Scholastica Kimanga, email: schola_kiragu@yahoo.com with a copy to info@nsa-net.org.

Find more information on their blog about the project and artists database: http://visualartsnetworking.wordpress.com/

Submit your favourite blogs to the BAKE Blog Awards, until Mar 29 2012

The Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) announces The BAKE Blog Awards, in a bid to reward exceptional bloggers and to also promote content creation in Kenya. The idea is to recognize bloggers that post consistently, have great and useful content, and are creative and innovative.

There will be a submission phase starting March 15th where blogs will be nominated in 14 categories below.

Though there is no specific arts & entertainment section, feel free to nominate Nairobi Now – maybe under Best General Blog!

1. Best Technology Blog
Blogs that cover tech matters like social media, internet usage, consumer electronics, mobile phones, tech startups etc.
2. Best Photography Blog
Blogs that showcase original photos or have photography related content.
3. Best Creative Writing Blog
Blogs that feature original creative writing in the form of poetry, fiction and essays.
4. Best Business Blog
Blogs that feature business content like business development, entrepreneurship, startups, stocks, investments, banking etc
5. Best Food Blog
Blogs that focus on food, cooking tips, restaurants, wines and recipes
6. Best Agriculture Blog
Blogs that focus on Farming, marketing of agricultural produce, and environmental impact of climate change
7. Best Fashion Blog
Blogs that highlight current trends in Fashion as well as personal grooming, fashion shows
8. Best Politics Blog
Blogs that cover political issues in Kenya.
9. Best New Blog
Outstanding Blogs that were set up from March 24th 2011 onwards.
10. Best Corporate Blog
Blogs run by companies.
11. Best General Blog
Blogs that features content that is exceptional but doesn’t don’t fit into any of the other 13 categories.
12. Best Sports Blog
Blogs that feature sports content.
13. Tweep of the Year – Individual
The best individual twitter user in Kenya.
14. Tweep of the Year – Corporate
The best corporate twitter user in Kenya.

The submission phase will run until March 29th and then judges will choose their best 5 in each category. The judges will be drawn from the media and the blogging community. After the judges pick their best 5 in each category, they will then be voted for by the public from April 10th. The winners in each category will be announced at a gala event on April 28th.

For more details about the BAKE Blog Awards visit http://bloggers.or.ke , the awards website, or email awards@bloggers.or.ke.

Request for Material/Share Experiences: For Jomo Kenyatta-Hope and Unity Exhibition, by National Museum of Kenya

The National Museum of Kenya is requesting for materials and/or calling out for experiences you would like to share with them pertaining Mzee Jomo Kenyatta (Kenya’s first president) for an exhibition that will be hosted at the same venue.

The time frames to be covered by this exhibition will be his early life as a young man and the challenges he faced, his time abroad, his return which covers the time frame from 1946 to the year he died, in 1978, and finally, the impact of his Legacy, extending to present day Kenya and beyond.

The National Museums of Kenya extends an invitation to anyone with memorabilia or experiences associated with the late Mzee Kenyatta that can go into the making of this exhibition and provide a refreshing look at the life and legacy of Kenya’s founding father.

They are looking for materials that include, but are not limited to, photographs, letters and written accounts of experiences you or people known to you would have shared with Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.

More information on this and how to get in touch with the National Museums of Kenya check this link:
http://www.museums.or.ke/Jomo_Kenyatta_Exhibition/request_for_materials.html

Consultative Workshop on Climate Change and Heritage, Mar. 21 2012 @ National Museum

The National Museum of Kenya is holding a consultative workshop on Climate change and Heritage. This workshop will be held on the March 21, 2012.
For further information, kindly contact Dr. Ali Adan, Team Leader, NMK Environment, Climate Change and Heritage Policy Group through + 254722961233; Email; aadan@museums.or.ke.
NB: Participation is strictly by invitation only.

For more information and project concept check their website

Updated – Why does Eat Out steal our content?

Nairobi Now normally cares about one thing only: posting arts and cultural events that we believe deserve more publicity in Nairobi.
Most event organisers contact us asking to promote an event. Occasionally, we find out about events through other websites, write about them and link to the original source.

You can imagine our disappointment when we found out that the 5 most recent entries on Nairobi Now feature on Eat Out’s mobile website [update: Eat Out no longer uses our content, just see the pictures below] – but without any mention of our blog. In fact, they appear on a page titled “Eat Out on Twitter”. Though it is an honour to be featured so prominently on such a useful service, it is also wrong on many levels. This is what we don’t like:

1. There is no mention of the source, nor of the author of the blog posts. Readers on Eat Out are fooled into believing this is a service provided by Eat Out itself.
2. We were not asked our permission for use of our content. Permission that we would have probably granted, maybe in exchange for some visibility.
3. The arrogance of calling their page Eat Out on Twitter – how about calling it Nairobi Now, for example?
4. It is not a coincidence that this is happening to a blog. Do you think Eat Out would have done the same with arts & entertainment content posted by, for example, Kenya Buzz or Up Nairobi – websites that actually have advertising partnerships with Eat Out?

Here is some evidence collected today, Friday 17th 2012.

You can also compare pictures of the three latest posts published on Nairobi Now and on “Eat Out on Twitter”.
Probably this very post will end up on their page too

So, the bottom line of this story is: Nairobi Now and all Kenyan blogs deserve to be taken seriously. And to be treated fairly. Behind their posts, there is a lot of creative work. Whether writing a review, editing press releases, selecting what to publish and what not to publish, fact-checking to avoid confusion or adding links to relevant digital media, we add value to the arts world. We certainly do not deserve to have our content be reused by Eat Out – or anyone else – without prior agreement and mention of the actual source.

If you like Nairobi Now, support our work and believe in the power of blogs, share this post, comment with your views and ask Eat Out to use our content fairly from now on – or to stop using it immediately otherwise!

Update: As some of you might have noticed, Eat Out has changed the link in their mobile site, now actually pointing to their twitter account. Someone asked why didn’t we just contact them in private first. The reason is simple: this is not about Nairobi Now – this is about all blogs, easily abused in the digital economy. Thank Eat Out for stopping to steal our content – although we wished you had asked us in the first place, and we would have all benefited.

Second update: We have now had a very positive conversation with Eat Out. We are happy to accept their apologies and to look into ways for us to collaborate. Hopefully this story can teach us how to better engage in partnerships online. Nairobi Now is happy to expand the reach of its content and to increase the visibility of the events we are selecting and promoting. All we ask is to always agree on the modalities for collaboration. For anyone who would like to partner with us, get in touch at nairobinow at gmail dot com.

Free Download: A dollar a day – An African music collaboration

A dollar a day is a wonderful 18 track album produced by Kenya’s South African based Akili Blaq. The project was overseen by Kenyan artist/activist Muki Garang, founder or founder of Maisha yetu (Arts and culture ngo). The music in the album is prominent with a mixture of cultures from East,west  and South Africa, with innovations in contemporary Hip-hop, a fusion of Setswana and Swahili.  The content in the musical compilation is not isolated to the youth but also accommodates the wider African society. It covers topics such as; Civil strife, The Malema effect,Love, HIV and Aids, Xenophobia, land reform policy and ethnicity.

This project involves renown artists from across the continent: Mpho ya Badimo(Motswedini fm,Mafikeng), Lerato Mosimane (formerly of BOP Tv), Apu, TLS, Relevant source(SA), Angell Nthoi (Botswana),Bra Sam Bass (Zimbabwe) Ngozi Chukura (Botswana),Omodada (Nigeria) and Kenya’s Akili Blaq who doubles as a rap artist.

Lastly the album contains interviews with policy makers and stakeholders from the post apartheid region mainly Sylvia Liabile (Chair person of South African Business committee on Hiv and AIDs).

The album was produced during the month of December 2011 at Dextraw studios in Mahikeng,Northwest province, South Africa

Download the complete album and find out more about the project on Maisha Yetu’s website: http://maishayetu.wordpress.com/2012/01/12/a-dollar-a-day/

Call for entries: African Film Festival-FCAT Córdoba 2012, by May 15 2012

FCAT-Cordoba main objective is to direct its efforts to promoting and spearheading African and Arabic cinematography in Spain and Spain speaking Latin America through specific actions focused on cooperation, teaching methods and training.

Rules and regulations
Application form
Dead Line: May 15, 2012
Festival dates: October 13-21, 2012
Contact Person: Marion Berger / marionb@fcat.es

Call for entries and more info available on their web site: http://www.fcat.es/FCAT_en/

Open: Pawa 254 Hub. This is a space for creatives, journalists and community organizers

About PAWA254
This is Nairobi’s unique new social enterprise and collaborative space for creatives and youth to achieve work of social impact. It opened its doors on January 3, 2012.
This hub aims to house, foster, and catalyze creative and community-driven projects for social change across Kenya. It is the first of its kind in Africa.

PAWA254 derives its name from a combination of “power” in Swahili and 254, Kenya’s country code, as a symbol of national strength and unity.

The new hub aims to facilitate the use of visual and graphic arts, independent and citizen journalism, documentary film and photography, and digital and social media as means of civic expression and social action. To achieve this, the hub facility will bring together established and aspiring photographers, cartoonists, animators, creative designers, video & filmmakers, as well as entrepreneurs and activists, to work, learn, and share in an environment that inspires creativity and innovative efforts to bring about social change.

PS: This is a membership paying facility and more information can be found on their website http://www.pawa254.org/

OneBeat Competition for Musicians: Application Open Jan. 16-Feb. 24 2012

The US Embassy, Nairobi’s Public Affairs section is pleased to announce an open competition for One Beat, a music exchange programme that will bring foreign musicians from several countries around the world to the United States for a residency and tour.

About One Beat
One Beat is an international music exchange project that brings together musicians from around the world through a residency and tour program focused on creative collaboration and social engagement.
This peer exchange will invite more than 50 young professional musicians (ages 19-35) to the U.S. to work with their American counterparts in the composition and the performance of new cross-genre works, the creation of innovative recordings & videos, and the development of practices of music as civic and social engagement.

Who is eligible to apply?
One beat is open to musicians ages 19-35, who demonstrate both an advanced proficiency in their musical work, an interest in cross genre collaboration, and an experience with or interest in developing ways to use music as a way to improve their communities. Musicians from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, with or without formal musical training, from all genres, including BUT not limited to: hip hop, traditional, experimental, electronic, jazz, classical, sound design, beat making, multimedia art, DJ-ing, audio engineering, or any combination of these styles. They are especially looking for musicians that have a strong commitment to their communities, seeking new ways to engage youth, arts-in-education, music therapy, conflict resolution, and many other ways of working towards more egalitarian and democratic societies.

What expenses will be covered for the participants?
All costs will be covered for the fellows, including travel, food, and accommodation. Fellows will also receive a per diem and modest honorarium.

Can Artists nominate themselves?
Yes, artists can apply without being nominated by anyone else.

What are the artist’s selection criteria?
1.Musical Excellence: A high level of performance, composition, improvisation, production and/or technological skill. Ideally OneBeat musicians will be innovating either stylistically, lyrically, or technologically within their own musical worlds.
2.Collaboration: Applicants willingness to cross cultural and genre divides in creating original music, or re-interpreting traditional music, while trying to maintain the essence of each tradition.
3.Social Engagement: Musicians must have used music to serve their communities or greater societies. This might consist of starting a music school, promoting peace and democracy through musical contest, reviving dying musical traditions and more. In addition participants should be eager to tour to smaller and mid-sized cities of the US to engage with citizens including other artists through performances, workshops, discussions and social activities.
4.Age: Applicants must be 19-35
5.English Proficiency: Applicants should be able to converse in Basic English, as it will be the common language of all OneBeat fellows.
6.Country of Origin: OneBeat fellows must live full time in one of the 38 eligible countries, and have NOT travelled to the US or have rarely performed in the US.
7.Internet proficiency: Ideally participants should actively use email and be able to connect to internet to participate in OneBeat website based activities.

Timelines
Application Opens: January 16, 2012
Applications Closes: February 24, 2012
OneBeat Fellowship notified: April 2012
Programme Dates: September 11-October 7, 2012

For more information visit their website: www.onebeatmusic.org
Read more information about this initiative here

News/Competition: International Poetry Competition Castello Di Duino VIII Edition 2012

The International Poetry Competition Castello Di Duino- VIII Edition- 2012
Deadline January, 7th 2012
Contacts: Prof. Gabriella Valera Gruber, Via Matteotti 21, 34138 Trieste – Tel. 040 638787 E-Mail valeragruber@alice.it, http://www.castellodiduinopoesia.it

GENERAL RULES
The competition is open to young people under 30 years of age.
Participation is free.

Theme of the 8th Edition- 2012: Mirror /Masks

For more information: Competition website

News: AMAA Eastern Africa Call for Film Entries by Nov. 30 2011

The Eastern Africa office of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) is calling for short and long fiction, documentary, animation and experimental film entries for its 2012 edition scheduled for April 2012. The deadline for submissions is November 30, 2011.

Only films produced and released between December 2010 and December 2011 are eligible. Features may not exceed 120 minutes and shorts may not be longer than 40 minutes.

Submission forms can be downloaded from http://www.ama-awards.com Nominations
will be announced in February 2012.

Since its inception in 2005, AMAA has established itself as the most prestigious and glamorous awards celebrating filmmaking on the continent. The gala event, which is televised live around the world, attracts Hollywood celebrities alongside their African counterparts, as well as African politicians and media.

Entries from Eastern Africa are handled by Lola Kenya Screen in Nairobi, Kenya. Further information or clarification is available via director@lolakenyascreen.org or cell 254 733 703374 or 254 722 486531.

Photo Exhibition: Photo Africa-Urban Space, Oct. 21-31 2011 @ Alliance

Dates: October 21-31, 2011
Venue: Alliance Francaise Ground Floor Gallery

This exhibition is a selection of the best submissions in the 4th PhotoAfrica Contest whose theme was urban space.

This exhibition takes place thanks to the collaboration and support of Embassy of Spain in Kenya and Kenya International Film Festival.