01 — Our Shared History
Preserve a Shared History
The story of Adama Diawara and Ruth Schaffner extends far beyond official records. Much of their legacy lives in family albums, personal correspondence, exhibition catalogues, photographs, artworks, and in the memories of the many people whose lives they touched.
Many of these valuable historical materials remain in private collections and have never been publicly shared. By contributing your photographs, documents, stories, or other materials, you help preserve an important chapter in the history of Gallery Watatu, Kenyan contemporary art, and the wider African art community.
01 — Our Shared History
What do you have that could help tell their story?
Choose the kind of contribution you would like to make. We will guide you through the next step.
01 / Visual History
Photographs
Family photographs, artist portraits, exhibitions, gallery events, studio images, and personal photographs.
02 / Written History
Documents & Publications
Letters, catalogues, invitations, newspapers, magazines, books, research papers, and gallery records.
03 / Creative Record
Artwork & Creative Materials
Artwork images, sketches, drawings, artist notes, exhibition plans, and related archival materials.
04 / Living Memory
Personal Memories
04 — Why It Matters
Every piece helps complete the picture.
Every photograph, letter, catalogue, or personal memory adds another piece to the historical record. Together, these materials provide insight into people, places, exhibitions, artistic collaborations, and cultural moments that might otherwise be lost.
- A photograph can reveal a forgotten exhibition.
- A letter can connect two people.
- A catalogue can document an important moment.
- A memory can bring history back to life.
05 — Archive Intake
Submit to the Archive
Whether you are sharing one photograph or a collection of historical records, your contribution can help preserve a story for generations to come.
06 — Oral History
Do You Have a Story About Ruth or Adama?
They are conversations. They are encounters. They are friendships. They are moments that were never photographed.
If you knew Ruth or Adama, worked with them, visited Gallery Watatu, attended an exhibition, collected an artwork, or knew an artist whose career they influenced, we would love to hear your story.
08 — Your Contribution
Every Story Helps Complete the Picture
The history of Gallery Watatu and the people who shaped it belongs to all of us. Help us preserve it for the generations who come next.