Decolonizing African Art History: Methods and Perspectives in Kenya

Decolonization in African art history involves challenging Eurocentric perspectives that have dominated the field for decades. This background underscores the need to reframe narratives and methodologies. The study employs mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys among Kenyan artists, curators, and academics. Data analysis includes thematic coding for both qualitative and quantitative data. Findings indicate that over 75% of participants support incorporating indigenous art forms into academic curricula as a means to decolonize art history in Kenya. The mixed-methods approach reveals significant social and educational implications for fostering inclusive African art histories. Universities should integrate decolonization strategies, including the inclusion of indigenous art forms in teaching materials, into their curricula to better reflect Kenyan contexts.