The Art of Ngatia Kennedy Wachira

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My name is Ngatia Kennedy Wachira. I was born and partly raised in the Aberdares region of Kenya. I went to

primary and Secondary Schools in the hilly parts of central Kenya. I studied Art and Design in high school and my

love for the arts led me to pursue a B. A. (Fine Art & Design) at Kenyatta University.

I draw my inspiration from nature. I question whether there is an unseen side of nature that demands a keen eye.

 In my work, I address the story of nature in relation to man (woman). The assumption is that man

(woman) has a lot of impact on nature. Man (woman) then is not a master of nature, but rather it's subject.

This is as a natural consequence of having grown up in the hilly countryside and transitioning into the city.

The journey started with live sketching and painting landscapes. This helped in the observation of environmental elements

which developed later into concepts. My process entails conceptualization of collected elements of nature like flow-

ers, butterflies, bees, and hands symbolically to come up with interesting compositions. Most of the elements I use come

from the photographs and live sketches I absorb from my surroundings.

My current body of work is titled, “VOICES OF NATURE. “ I majorly paint in acrylics on canvas with the use of bold

colors and texture. I believe this gives a voice to nature. I also improvise art materials as well as mixed media types

of art for the desired effect.

I currently work from my home studio in Ngong, Kenya. I have been able to exhibit in group shows and attended

residencies in Europe as well as Africa. All the works shown are my own creation.