Mimi,Nywele-Nywele Mimi: 2024, 1min 11secs, Photomontage in Video Format, HD 1080p (Showcased: Code virtual exhibition by The Holy Art Gallery 23.10 - 23.11.2024)

Chagua Style 1&2: 2023, Acrylic Paint, Printed photos and Thread , 420 x 297 mm

Nywele (Video): 2022, 19 secs, Photomontage in Video Format, HD 1080p

Uke 1&2:2023, Acrylic Paint, Printed photos and Synthetic hair extensions , 400 x 680 mm

In these works, I explore the shifting boundaries of identity, beauty, and self-expression through the intimate act of hairstyling. Moving through a series of the artist’s elaborate African hairstyles set against abstract landscapes, the piece confronts the viewer with the complex interplay between pride and scrutiny, personal choice and societal expectation. They reflect on how identity markers such as hair are simultaneously a source of empowerment and a battleground for cultural and gendered perceptions. Through this, the works question the arbitrary standards imposed on African women’s bodies, asking: Who defines authenticity? Who polices femininity? And why does the act of self-expression invite judgment?

The ‘Am I African Enough? ‘ collection is a body of work in which I question my African identity as a born and bred Kenyan currently living in Germany. What is this ‘Africaness’ that I identify with? What makes me truly Kenyan? What makes me African enough?