How would you describe what you do?
My artwork combines figurative and abstract elements. My wife and extended family are from the Kalenjin tribal group in Kenya, so African influences mix with those from Western culture. Abstraction is important in my work as a reference to modern art, but figurative elements (masks, figures, family members or other cultural forms) add an interpretation of my thoughts.
When were you first drawn to your current art form?
From my early days growing up in remote communities in Australia, I was drawn to traditional cultures. Around 20 years ago I started collecting tribal and oceanic art and working with these elements. I met my wife 10 years ago and became part of the family unit in Kenya. Being accepted into the tribal group, and learning their important cultural mores has intensified my practice.
Where are you and your studio based?
I spend most of my time in Sydney but also periods in Nairobi, Kenya. In my Sydney studio, I’m surrounded by oceanic and tribal artefacts and a collection of oceanic art history books. In Nairobi, it’s the place itself which adds a different dimension and reflection space.
Did you study fine arts or are you self-taught?
I tried studying fine art early on, but ended up studying finance and law. My practice is self-taught but I have undertaken a lot of reading and research on art history, especially modern art and its concepts which have helped me develop my own style and artist practice.
What does a typical day in the studio involve?
It comprises reading and looking at cultural forms in books and personal photos. I consider how to develop new work from these elements. I also think about past conversations, such as with a Maasai friend who works in the modern world, but lives a very traditional life and this has inspired a work. I map out artwork in aerosol, a technique I learnt from a good friend and mural artist.
What is your subject matter?
Africa and its tribal elements, beliefs and modern culture. Also, my family and who I am now – these reflect important subjects in my life and art.
What materials do you use?
I use a mixture of acrylic, pencils, sumi ink, industrial paint and very expensive oil sticks which I seal with a clear coat spray to dry quickly before varnishing.
What are you currently working on?
I’m working on a number of paintings from my recent trip back to Kenya, drafted over there with pastels. I am also working on more large-scale works.
What is one artwork you’d add to your collection?
An artwork by Jack Kabangu, an African artist working in Denmark who blends African culture and figurative, Chagall-like elements in his painting in an amazing way.
What is your dream artistic project?
To paint a Porsche or BMW art car.
Above: Artist Mess Noise. Photo: DIANA MUTAI. Courtesy: the artist.
Acrylic and Oilstick onboard, 90 x 60cm. Courtesy: the artist.
Acrylic and Oil stick on Canvas Board,
60 x 60cm. Courtesy: the artist.
