DeroArts is a community of visual artists, innovative technology practitioners, researchers, and social entrepreneurs based in Kisumu on the shores of Lake Victoria, Kenya. The non-profit organization promotes contemporary art and builds on cultural heritage to enhance social cohesion and create inclusive, economic, and ecological resilient communities. By affirming and celebrating cultural diversity, we seek to overcomes negative stereotypes and biases, build trust, respect, and understanding. Through art we explore identity to create a sense of self-worth and purpose towards promoting civic engagement and mental well-being, especially among the youth.
Kisumu, the third biggest city in Kenya, offers a historic backdrop for DeroArts. As the terminus of the Uganda Railway, dubbed the Lunatic Express by its critics, linking the coast of present-day Kenya with Uganda in 1901, Kisumu has a rich history and a diverse population. DeroArts can also build on the ambition of the county government to create, produce, disseminate, and distribute competitive cultural products and services, protect and preserve tangible and intangible cultural heritage to ensure sustainable livelihoods and support community empowerment in the Lake Victoria Basin region.
DeroArts collaborates with local, national, and international organisations such as Blue Cross Kenya, Kijivu Africa, Kisumu Museum, Mama Grace Onyango Cultural and Social Centre, Kisumu, Mwangaza School of Fine Art, Kisumu, the National Museums of Kenya and Kibera Art District.