Fred Mutebi

Since his graduation Mutebi has pursued a freelance career as an illustrator, graphic and textile designer. His favourite medium is multi-colour woodcut-print on paper. Using his particular method, known as the 'progressive reduction method', he is unable to produce more than ten prints of the same composition. He developed an unmistakable technique with a wide pallet of blues, reds, browns, greens, and greys. Through the exaggeration of natural forms in his prints he is able to reveal their drama and beauty.

Some of his subjects are very disturbing. His rendition of figures reveal humanity's fragility facing catastrophes, in particular the one faced by the Africans in recent years. However the tenderness by which it is treated leaves room for hope.

Mutebi exploits the narrative qualities of the graphic medium, telling stories about important social events that happen in Uganda as well as recording characteristic images of his environment, making a sort of visual history of his surroundings.

He was discovered and promoted by Rose-Marie Rychner. As the youngest artist in the group presented at the Johannesburg Biennale, Mutebi attracted a lot of international attention.

Exhibitions / Prizes:

Artworks (Click the pictures to see an enlargement):

1. "Kampala Sky" (1994) - Wood Cut / Colour Print
2. "Fleeing Family" (1995) - Wood Cut / Colour Print - 34 x 25 cm
3. "Explanation" (1995) - Wood Cut / Colour Print - 30 x 50 cm
4. "Ugandan Market" (1995) - Wood Cut / Colour Print

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