Take Five: Wawira Njeru
Professional artist and photographer Wawira Njeru.
What you need to know:
- I have a unique way of storytelling that is mostly content-based.
- Being an artist is a process involving deep soul searching, and a lot of trial and error.
1. Describe yourself…
I usually describe myself in two ways but only through one medium – work.
I sometimes work at Dogme Imagery, a company I founded that offers events’ photography and video services. This was meant to be my main income generating activity, but it isn’t at the moment. I will get back to it once it picks up.
I am also an art practitioner. I don't feel accomplished enough to call myself an artist. I still have a long way to go! My main medium is photography, and I like dwelling on identity as a topic.
For instance, identity as millennials growing up in Kenya, identity as an African at a time of great economic upheaval, identity as a woman, as a plus-size woman and as a masculine presenting woman living in a world that is quite hostile to those who are different.
2. What do you mean by “art practitioner?”
I have a unique way of storytelling that is mostly content-based. I am inclined to highlighting persons and objects that I feel have been misrepresented or require more attention, such as tomboys, plus-size women, a busy backyard, a raggedy rooftop, an unkempt bed sitter, or a busy market.
3. When did you start your company?
Back in 2015.
4. Why do you think you have a long way to go?
Because I have realised that it takes a lot to become an artist. It is a process involving deep soul searching, and a lot of trial and error. I am not there yet.
5. So, when do you think you will be an artist?
Perhaps the day I will carve a niche for myself and make a mark in history. And of course, like any other artist, I hope to make big sales! I want to live off my art, to make it a proper job where I will be participating in popular art festivals, get published and have a couple of solo exhibitions under my belt. I want it all!
