Fan-keenna is a Somali word that means 'our art', it reflects the drive to instill and highlight creative identity with Somali flair. It was named by local artists for a space allocated for the youth, that aims to provide opportunities to enrich the creative outputs of local artists. It started as an idea in 2020 in Hargeisa - Somaliland, but the actual launch was in 2023.
Somali society, in general, is an oral society that relies on conveying cultural heritage and history by narration, leading to the over-reliance on this method of expression in various fields, with poetry being the ideal way of expression. Throughout the years and the development of forms and ways of expression in Somali societies, other methods did not achieve popularity.
New Generation, New Concepts
The new generation is trying to create its own new methods to preserve cultural heritage in multiple ways of expression. In my conversation with Mustafa Saeed, photographer and visual artist, and one of the founders of Fan-Keenna, he explains the reasons and goals for establishing the space.
“Every community has its own way of presenting its identity, but there are no artistic spaces in Somali culture that bring together people with different artistic specialties. The artistic support is limited to almost one aspect as they depend almost entirely on singing as a cultural and artistic heritage that is popular for the public, which led to neglecting other aspects such as drawing, photography, and others" Mustafa explained.
He notes that they set out to create a supportive environment that provides guidance, counseling, and support for all kinds of arts by providing training courses and creating art galleries and open spaces for artwork available throughout the week.
One of the participants attended artistic training courses, coordinating art exhibitions and open discussions organized by Fankeenna. Source: Fankeenna
Fankeenna proved to be a source of inspiration, motivation, and support for local artists, and helped them overcome obstacles by providing opportunities for their growth in a suitable environment to focus on preserving the Somali identity. It also provides a space for presenting art in modern ways that suit the taste of Somali society.
Enthusiastic people as they admired artwork during the first exhibition by photographer Abdul Rahim Al-Rashid which marked the official opening of the space.
Hangool's Inaugural Exhibition
The hangool is a traditional tool used by Somali nomads. It has many uses, including protection from lions. It also symbolizes stability, as it represents the insight of the Somali people, their resourcefulness, and flexibility. It has been and still is part of the Somali culture and identity.
During the exhibition which was the actual launch of the space, several artists were asked to creatively use hangool in their own way to produce a distinctive work of art with a Somali identity, in an attempt to make a tool used on a daily basis stand out as a work of art.
Some of the artwork exhibited by architectural designer Mustafa Yasin. Source: Fankeenna
Mustafa Yasin, an architectural designer and visual artist was full of appreciation for the opportunity to showcase his work as the space opened its doors to the public.
"My idea was to combine the traditional Somali Hangool's cultural and vibrant nature with the gentle feelings of harmonious joy and fun for the elegant traditional tool. I would like to convey ideas without drawing them directly, and combine them with life stills, photorealistic paintings, and modern and contemporary art,” Mustafa revealed.
Diversity of Art
For Shaimaa Maad, a plastic and visual artist, her contribution to the inaugural exhibition was a big success and a step in the right direction for the arts sector.
"Making the transition to the new page was as smooth as falling leaves. As our lives become more technologically advanced, we dispensed with our legacy. We should always preserve our culture and try to integrate it into the modern lifestyle" she commented.
Plastic artistic work exhibited by Shaimaa Maad. Source: Fankeenna
One of the exhibitors, Modern Sufi Hamza Soleb, a storyteller and photographer, notes that there is a need to urgently preserve Somali culture for future generations. He adds that the artwork that he showcased describes the need for each individual to go out and find their own way to express themselves. He points out that the new generation is struggling with trying to preserve their history while meeting the demands of their contemporary life.
One of the photos which were exhibited by Modern Sufi Hamza Soleb. Source: Fankeenna
Photographer Abdul Rahman Rashid who was part of the exhibition explains that his photography journey started at a tender age and has been steadfast all through. He is glad that he got an opportunity to exhibit his work during the grand opening. He added "My photography career started as a hobby and turned into a passion. Each culture has its own elements and tools; Hangool is one of the distinctive tools in our culture that is used in different ways in ancient and modern daily life. It must be preserved as a traditional and cultural heritage that symbolizes our identity."
One of the photography pieces that were exhibited. Source: Fankeenna
Conclusion
The artwork exhibited during the inaugural exhibition was outstanding and feedback from the visitors and participants alike was a strong incentive to continue. The reviews have emboldened local artists to develop their skills and improve their art while preserving and expressing their identity in a way that suits them. This was a new and unique experience that gave space to everyone to express themselves in various ways, especially those who have managed to transform their skills from mere hobbies to careers.
These arts and cultural activities help to reflect the true image of Somaliland, the Somali Peninsula, and the region in general. At Fan-Keenna, it is believed that creative expression can be used to encourage meaningful dialogue and collaboration to create a healthy, more inclusive, and prosperous society.
