BUMU Art Gallery: A Legacy of Art, Culture, and Royalty
Nestled in the heart of the Buganda Kingdom, BUMU Art Gallery is more than a space—it is a living tribute to the Kingdom’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Founded under the distinguished patronage of HRH Nnaalinya Catherine Agnes Nabaloga, sister to Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II and daughter of Ssekabaka Mutesa II, BUMU stands as a bridge between tradition and contemporary creativity. As Lubuga (King’s Sister), her role embodies the spirit of cultural preservation, making the gallery a powerful beacon for Ugandan artists seeking to share their vision with the world.
Positioned within the Buganda Cultural Centre, near Butikkiro (the Katikkiro’s official residence) and a stone’s throw from Twekobe (the Kabaka’s Palace), BUMU Art Gallery is a sanctuary for artists—both emerging and established—who express Uganda’s evolving identity through a variety of styles, mediums, and narratives. It embodies Buganda’s long-standing tradition of inclusivity, welcoming diverse artistic voices while reflecting the Kingdom’s deep-rooted appreciation for creative expression.
Art is more than decoration—it is a language of heritage, a visual symphony of dreams, struggles, and triumphs. At BUMU, every brushstroke and sculpted form echoes the soul of a people, capturing what words often fail to express. The gallery serves as a cultural repository where the past and present converse, where identity is not only preserved but reimagined through art.
BUMU was born out of the urgent need to uplift artists who face barriers to visibility, financial stability, and public engagement. Too many gifted creators remain unseen, yet art is a powerful economic force with the potential to sustain livelihoods and shape national identity.
Princess Nabaloga is the sister of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II and serves as Nnaalinya, a key custodian of Buganda’s royal traditions. She was installed as Lubuga during her brother’s coronation in 1993 and has been actively involved in cultural preservation and international engagements.