Open Source Gallery supports research of Upendo Chitinka

Upendo Chitinka is a Rotary Peace Fellow from the International Christian University in Tokyo, Japan, pursuing an MA in Research and Public Policy with a focus on Peace Studies. She has a background in curation and is also a crafter from Tanzania. Upendo has curated a brand called Contemporary Craft, which empowers women crafters in financially challenged communities by focusing on “Bridging the Gap Between Form and Function.” Currently based in New York, Upendo is working on her thesis, investigating the role of visual art in peace-building and its incorporation by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Her study aims to understand how visual art can foster social cohesion, address community challenges, and promote cultural dialogue. Through her research, she explores the experiences and perspectives of visual artists across Africa and New York, using Open Source Gallery as a case study. 

Objective: The primary objective of Upendo’s research is to examine how visual art can be effectively utilized in peace-building initiatives by CSOs, contributing to the development of strategies that harness the power of art to create positive social change. 

Significance:  This research is significant as it seeks to highlight the transformative power of art in fostering social cohesion, addressing community challenges, and promoting cultural dialogue. The findings are intended to inform future initiatives and policies, enhancing the impact of art in peace-building and community development. By demonstrating the potential of visual art to act as a catalyst for peace, Upendo’s work aims to inspire and guide CSOs in integrating artistic approaches into their peace-building efforts.