Introducing Iced Cacti: The Fun Side of Munyao.art

At Munyao.art, we blend art with philanthropy, offering serious works of original art and signed prints. But we also believe art should be fun and engaging. That’s where **Iced Cacti** comes in.

Iced Cacti is the playful counterpart to Munyao.art, curated by Zikki Munyao and Remy Munyao, also known as **RZMY**. It’s where art, fun, and philanthropy meet in a vibrant, entertaining way. Iced Cacti will host exciting video content and offer a range of products like cartoon-inspired posters, merchandise, and possibly even NFTs. While Munyao.art focuses on signed prints and original pieces, Iced Cacti will feature mostly digitally created content, adding a fresh, lighthearted twist to our offerings.

Over the coming months, we’ll be curating the site at [IcedCacti.com](https://icedcacti.com), building out this fun and exciting side of the Munyao.art brand. Whether it’s playful art or engaging content, Iced Cacti will bring a smile to your face while staying rooted in our mission of creating meaningful impact through art.

Stay tuned for more updates from the world of Iced Cacti!

The Hidden Selfie to the Trillion Dollar Elephant Iced Cacti YT Video

The moment rzmy took this selfie mid-video

In the world of art, sometimes the most captivating moments happen behind the scenes, in a flash, without any planning. While recording the Trillion Dollar Elephant video for Iced Cacti, something special was captured. The moment you see here is a selfie that my son, RZMY, snapped in the middle of filming. It’s raw, unfiltered, and caught the two of us vibing, mid-creative flow, with the Trillion Dollar Elephant standing powerfully behind us.

Remy Z. aka RZMY & Zikki | Iced Cacti | Trillion Dollar Elephant YT Video | Oct 2024

This photo represents more than just a behind-the-scenes look. It gives you a glimpse into the energy and connection we share while creating these projects. You’ll see this very moment unfold in the video itself, but here’s a little challenge for you: Can you spot this exact moment in the video? Maybe you’ll catch the subtle expressions we had before or after this freeze-frame, or even recognize a connection between Trillion Dollar Elephant and my earlier piece, Empowered.

Both pieces, in their own way, represent different sides of the same coin. I leave it to you, the audience, to decide—are these two paintings really about the same individual? After watching, I’d love to hear what you think. Head over to Iced Cacti on YouTube, find this moment, and let me know—do Trillion Dollar Elephant and Empowered speak to you in the same way?

Explore the full video and the meaning behind the art—if you know me, maybe you’ll catch something familiar. And don’t forget to share your thoughts!

A Day of Caring and Community through Art

This morning, I had the incredible opportunity to join nearly 1900 volunteers for the United Way of Greater Charlottesville's Day of Caring. It was an inspiring start to the day, with volunteers from all walks of life uniting for a common goal—giving back to our community in meaningful ways.

What made today even more special for me was seeing the painting I created for the Day of Caring featured on the t-shirts that every volunteer proudly wore. It was a humbling moment to see my art symbolizing the heart of volunteerism and community upliftment.

The design itself reflects the spirit of today—people coming together, working side by side for the good of our community. Seeing most of the volunteers in those t-shirts reminded me of how art can unite and inspire collective action.

Today’s events are a reminder that when we come together, whether through volunteerism or creativity, we make a difference. I’m grateful to United Way of Greater Charlottesville and all the volunteers for allowing me to be part of this transformative day. This isn’t just about art on a t-shirt; it’s about the beauty in action and the power of community.

Together, we’ve created something beautiful, and I’m excited to continue supporting our community in new ways.

Thank you for caring, and thank you for making today special!

Sound of Silence

In a world that constantly demands our attention, silence becomes a rare and precious commodity. My latest painting, "The Sound of Silence," captures the complex relationship between external quiet and internal noise. At first glance, the painting appears serene, minimalist in its use of color—a stark contrast to the vibrant hues often found in my other works. But as you delve deeper, you begin to feel the tension, the unease that lies just beneath the surface.

Sound of Silence by Nzioki Munyao | 36”x48” Acrylic on Canvas | Completed August 2024

This 36"x48" acrylic on canvas represents those moments when you attempt to meditate, to find peace, but are confronted by the cacophony of thoughts swirling inside your mind. The bold, yellow lines symbolize the intrusions—those random thoughts, worries, and distractions—that interrupt the stillness we so desperately seek. The face in the center is devoid of expression, reflecting the outer calm we try to maintain while inside, our minds are anything but silent.

"The Sound of Silence" invites viewers to explore their own experiences with silence and noise. How often do we truly find silence, and when we do, are we ever really alone with our thoughts? This painting is a visual representation of that inner struggle—a reminder that silence is not merely the absence of sound but the presence of internal dialogue that we must navigate daily.

As with all my work, I encourage you to ask yourself: Where does "The Sound of Silence" belong in your space? Does it resonate with your own experiences of meditation or mindfulness? I'd love to hear your thoughts and reflections.

At Munyao.art, we stand at the intersection of art and heart, tying our art with philanthropy and empowering others. Join us on this journey. #artwithheart

Sound of Silence by Nzioki Munyao

Smile! Life’s Too Short Not to Find Joy in Every Moment

Life is a journey full of layers—just like an onion. And as an artist, I’ve come to realize that each layer we peel back reveals something new about ourselves and the world around us. Sometimes, it brings tears to our eyes; other times, it brings a smile to our face. But no matter what, it’s all part of the beautiful process of living.

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My latest painting, Onion, aka, R.5.O, is inspired by my experiences as an onion farmer in Kenya. Onions may be known for making us cry, but this one’s different—it’s here to make you smile!

R.5.O represents the many layers of life. Each layer holds its own story, its own emotion. And just like peeling an onion, the more we delve into life, the more we discover about ourselves and others. Some layers may be tough, others tender, but all are essential to the whole.

In this piece, I wanted to capture the essence of joy found in the unexpected. R.5.O is a cheerful onion character that turns the usual tears of cutting an onion into a reason to smile. It's a playful reminder that joy can be found in the most unlikely places, and that no matter how many layers we uncover, there’s always something to smile about.

So here’s a little nudge from me to you: keep peeling back those layers, keep exploring, and most importantly—keep smiling. Life’s too short not to try your best to find the joy in every moment.

What do you see when you look at R.5.O? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Pugsy

At munyao.art, the canvas is more than just a medium for art—it's a portal to joy and a helping hand extended across continents. Every brushstroke is a blend of vivid fun and a serious mission to make the world a little brighter, both visually and philanthropically.

Pugsy by Nzioki Munyao | 36”x48” Acrylic on Canvas | Completed 4/20/2024

Working with fluorescent paint isn't just about the bold visuals; it's an adventure in texture and light. In daylight, the colors shout from the canvas, but it's in the dark where they whisper their secrets, glowing with an inner fire.

The process is a reminder that art should always be a delight, a playful leap into the unknown with a brush as your compass. And with munyao.art, the voyage doesn't end with the drying of the paint. Each sale is a step toward uniting communities, supporting local and international causes, and painting a brighter future with every hue.

So, dear reader, as you consider bringing this glowing pug into your life, know that you're igniting more than just your walls—you're helping to illuminate paths for others. And now, a question to spark the conversation: When was the last time art not only caught your eye but also touched your heart?

Pugsy by Nzioki Munyao | Lighting up the Living Room

Share your experiences, and let’s grow this community of art enthusiasts who believe in the power of giving. Join the discussion at munyao.art, where every comment, share, and purchase helps turn the vision of a connected, compassionate world into reality.

Discover more, get involved, and let's make the canvas of the world as vibrant as our art at munyao.art.

Pugsy by Nzioki Munyao | Looking Out While You Sleep

Navigating the Social Media Maze

Let's chat about that thing we all love and hate—social media. It's like this painting I completed several weeks ago, where every swipe and like paints another stroke on the canvas of our digital lives.

That G clef at the heart of the piece? It’s the music behind the endless scroll, the soundtrack to our late-night dives into the Insta rabbit hole. We've all been there, haven't we? Those tunes that keep us hooked, promising another hit song or viral dance just a swipe away.

And boy, do those neon colors pop! They’re like the buzz you get when your post blows up with likes. It's a rush, a burst of virtual high-fives that feels pretty awesome in the moment. But then there's the flip side—those droopy eyes. They're all of us when we realize we've been zoning out to our screens, missing out on the real world and real people.

Those vibrant colors? They're not just for show. They're the sneaky little dopamine hits we get, making us come back for more. But the tired eyes painted amidst the chaos? That's the real talk. It's the time we've given up, the stuff we could've been doing, the memories we could've been making.

And the smile in there? Yeah, it's the good vibes we get from catching up with friends or chuckling at memes. But it's also a bit of a question mark, isn't it? Are we really having as much fun as we think, or is it just a quick fix?

This whole social media thing is like walking a tightrope. It keeps us in the loop, makes us laugh, and helps us feel connected. But it's also this big, colorful distraction that can gobble up our time before we even notice.

So, what's the deal? Are we better off with our feeds and stories, or is it a case of too much of a good thing? Well, I guess it's about finding that sweet spot, where we can enjoy the perks without falling into the trap. It's about making social media work for us, not the other way around.

Let’s keep the conversation going, maybe even off-screen. After all, isn't that where the best stories happen?

The Unity of Golf Embodied in "The M Tiger" Painting

Golf is a sport that unites people, and nowhere is this connection better symbolized than in a striking acrylic painting named "The M Tiger." This 12"x12" canvas piece is a vibrant representation of the spirit and passion inherent in the game.

The M Tiger | 12”x12” Acrylic on Canvas | Gift from the Artist to Matthew Lewis

"The M Tiger" captures the essence of golf—a tiger lying in repose with a golf flag as a testament to the sport's blend of calm precision and inner fire. The tiger's bold yellow and black palette reflects the focus and strength required in golf, while the red flag symbolizes the achievements and shared experiences on the course.

Gifted to Matt Lewis, "The M Tiger" is not only a representation of the sport's challenges but also its camaraderie. To Matt, this piece is a constant reminder of the friendships forged and the serene beauty found in golf’s quiet moments.

Matt, as the keeper of "The M Tiger," is reminded daily of the joys the sport brings—both through solitary play and the community it creates. The painting is a nod to the countless stories and memories made among fellow golf enthusiasts.

Now, it's time for Matt to share his personal connection to "The M Tiger" and the bonds created through golf.

“I grew up and enjoying golf. It was my favorite thing to do throughout my childhood. As I grew older, Tiger Woods became the man he is today. It’s funny because I look back now and think about how much the greatest golfer of our generation impacted the game. Tiger Woods, is synonymous with golf and synonymous with one of the greatest athletes that will ever experience and a generation with likes of Wayne Gretzky of Tom Brady and Babe Ruth. There are two things about golf that I think about when I think about this game when is Tiger Woods and the other is the greatest golf tournament that we will experience the greatest major that we experience in this part this painting makes me think of those things it is truly a cherish thing that we get to see experience and I’m very lucky that my friend Zikki made this painting for me because he knows how much my love of the game is and he knows how much I appreciate greatness and the greatest of all time.”

— Matthew Lewis

The Roaring Rhythms of Leo

Introduction: There's an undeniable power in music and art, a universal language that speaks directly to the soul. Today, we're turning the spotlight on a piece that not only speaks but sings and roars with the rhythms of life – meet Leo, the lion whose saxophone whispers the secrets of jazz straight into the heart.

The Inspiration Behind Leo: 'Leo' is a Swahili word for 'today,' a name that echoes the importance of living in the moment. This vibrant painting is a homage to that philosophy. With every stroke of the brush, the artist has captured the fierce beauty of life, embodied in a lion whose mane dances to the beat of his own music. The saxophone, an extension of Leo himself, symbolizes the breath of life, moving through us all with every note played.

A Celebration of Now: The painting of Leo is more than a static image; it's a dynamic celebration of existence. The bright colors burst forth from the canvas, mirroring the energy of a live jazz performance. Leo teaches us to embrace today, to feel the music of the present, and to live with a passion that is as colorful and vivid as his mane.

The Roots of Leo’s Roar: Every creation has a story, and Leo's is deeply rooted in the rich savannas of Kenya, the artist's homeland. In these majestic wilds, lions rule with a gentle grandeur, their presence a testament to the untamed beauty of nature. Drawing inspiration from these kings of the savannah, the artist has channeled the essence of Kenya into Leo, crafting a connection that transcends continents and captures the imagination. See it in the Green background?

Leo isn't merely a character; he is an ambassador of the now, encouraging us to find harmony in life's chaos. As we explore the possibility of featuring Leo's lively spirit across our range of products, we invite you to share your ideas. Envision the roar of the lion, the soul of Kenya, in your daily life - which product would be the perfect canvas for this majestic creature?

We Want to Hear From You: Chime in with your thoughts by commenting below. Which item from our collection do you feel should showcase Leo's wild and free spirit? Your insights are invaluable as we compose this new melody of art and existence. Comment on below to share your thoughts.

Connect With Us: To stay up to date on Leo's journey and more, follow on social media. Let's keep the conversation going and make each day a tribute to the beauty of the present.

Discover and Engage: Be sure to visit our store at munyao.art/store to vote on your favorite Leo-inspired products and join us as we blend the spirit of the Kenyan wild with everyday life. Follow along, share your rhythm, and together, let's make life a vibrant masterpiece.

"Origin" - A Reflection of Kenya and the Soul of Africa

"Origin" - A Reflection of Kenya and the Soul of Africa

Within the vivid palette of my art, "Origin" holds a treasured spot, symbolizing not just my adoration for Africa's spirit but also my Kenyan roots. This painting, rich in color and emotion, is an ode to the continent where humanity's story began and to the country that keeps me rooted to my heritage.

“Origin” | Acrylic Paint on 36”x 48” Canvas | Completed 02/02/2020

Kenya: The Beating Heart of Africa

Kenya, my homeland, is painted into the very fibers of "Origin." Its landscapes and resilient cultures influence the contours and hues of this artwork. As a Kenyan, the painting is a reflection of the deep connection I feel to my country, a place that, much like the Africa it represents, is a tapestry of past, present, and future intertwined.

The Earth's Canvas

Through the art of farming in Kenya, my hands touch the soil that has nourished generations. It's a daily act of painting the Earth, sowing seeds that grow into the very sustenance of life. This physical and spiritual act keeps me tethered to Kenya, much like "Origin" is anchored in the essence of Africa.

A Dialogue of Identity and Belonging

"Origin" invites viewers into a dialogue about identity and belonging. It challenges each of us to consider our roots and the bonds we share with our homeland. For my readers from across the globe, let this painting be a reminder of home, no matter where your journey takes you.

I pose to you, how do the places you call home shape your identity? How does your heritage, like my Kenyan roots, influence your view of the world?

As we share in this dialogue, "Origin" stands as a testament to the enduring strength and beauty of Africa, and Kenya's vital role in the narrative of our shared humanity. It's not just one of my favorite pieces; it is the story of my connection to a land that is both ancient and ever-evolving.

Through this narrative, "Origin" becomes more than a painting; it is a symbol of the artist's Kenyan heritage, the act of farming that connects them to their land, and the broader, universal search for identity and belonging that we all share.

The Story Behind My Latest Creation: A Journey of Inspiration and Discovery

The Story Behind My Latest Creation: Art with a Purpose

Welcome to a special intersection where creativity meets compassion, and every brushstroke contributes to a cause much greater than art itself. Today, I'm not only excited to unveil my latest artwork but also to share its profound purpose: supporting the Makindu Children's Program in Makindu, Kenya. This piece transcends artistic expression; it's a beacon of hope and an invitation for you to join a movement that extends far beyond the canvas.

Makindu Kids | Completed February, 2024

The Inspiration Behind the Canvas

Driven by the resilience and indomitable spirit of the children at Makindu Children's Orphanage, this artwork is a testament to hope, strength, and the collective power of community. It reflects the unyielding positivity and the vibrancy of life, despite adversity. Through this piece, I aim to capture the essence of their courage and the boundless joy that they embody, serving as a bridge that connects us to their journey and challenges.

A Creative Journey with a Mission

Embarking on this artistic venture, my goal was to do more than create a visually appealing piece. It was about weaving the narratives and emotions of these incredible children into the fabric of the artwork, making each stroke a symbol of their stories and dreams. This process was a profound journey of empathy and connection, aiming to resonate deeply with all who view it and inspire action.

Let's Spark a Conversation for Change

Now, I turn to you, my community of art lovers and compassionate souls, to take this dialogue further. Beyond admiring this piece for its aesthetic value, I invite you to dive into its deeper meaning, the stories it tells, and the lives it seeks to uplift. How does this artwork speak to you? What emotions or thoughts does it evoke? How can art become a powerful vehicle for social change?

This is where the magic of conversation comes in. I warmly encourage you to share your insights, reflections, and responses in the comments/chat section below. Let's use this space not just for dialogue, but as a platform to rally support and awareness for the Makindu Children's Orphanage. Every comment, every share, and every discussion amplifies our collective impact.

Engage, Share, Support

As we navigate this conversation together, remember that your engagement goes a long way. By discussing this piece and its mission, you're not only spreading awareness but also contributing to a greater cause. And if you feel moved to do so, I urge you to consider supporting the orphanage directly through donations. Together, our collective voices and actions can create waves of positive change.

Join the Movement: Art for Good

This initiative is more than just an art project; it's a testament to the power of community, compassion, and creativity. By engaging with this piece and its story, you're part of a larger movement—one that champions hope, support, and tangible help for the children at Makindu.

Thank you for being here, for engaging, and for being a force of good in the world. Let's use our conversations, our art, and our actions to make a lasting difference. Share your thoughts below, and let's make this a vibrant forum for change.

Taurus Buffalo - August 2020

“AFRICAN BUFFALO HERDS “VOTE”
Researchers have discovered a curious phenomenon in female African buffalo: they appear to “vote” to decide which direction to move the herd in. During times of rest, the females sit on the ground facing the direction they think the herd should move. After resting time finishes, the herd then moves in the direction that the majority were pointing towards. The most interesting aspect of this observed behaviour is that it is communal: the dominance hierarchy does not appear to influence the “votes” of individual buffalo.”

— https://www.lionworldtravel.com/news/who-knew-7-brilliant-buffalo-facts

Taurus Buffalo - 24”x 36” Acrylic Painting on Canvas. August 2020

The most difficult painting I’ve done to date, partly due to the fact that I was trying to depict how dangerous the African Buffalo is, but the colors chosen, the texture and the stance painted took time to get close to what was on my mind.

To make matters more interesting, it was during this painting that I got stung by a Yellow Jacket Bee - I guess the bee knew how dangerous the animal in the painting was and gave its life by punishing me :)

Anyway, the painting came out well and now hangs in the basement of my house.

What else is cool about the African Buffalo?

“AFRICAN BUFFALO HORNS TELL MANY STORIES
In adult male African buffaloes, the base of their distinct, curving horns come so close together that the fuse. This creates a sort of shield on their heads known as a “boss”. Female buffalo horns do not have a “boss”, allowing researchers to distinguish between male and female buffalo more easily. In addition, the larger and thicker the horns in adult males, the more likely this male is to be higher ranked in the dominance hierarchy of the herd. In other words, you can tell a lot about an African buffalo from their horns!”

— https://www.lionworldtravel.com/news/who-knew-7-brilliant-buffalo-facts

Mambalicious - July 2020

“Every day, I live a lie
But not the crocodile kind.”

— Megan McCafferty

Mambalicious. Acrylic Painting on 24”x 36” Canvas. Completed July 2020

My paternal grandfather was known as King’ang’i, Kamba (my mother tongue) for Crocodile. He had a way of getting things done and owned a prominent arts and crafts store at the City Market, located in Nairobi, Kenya. Walking up to his store, you were welcomed by large unique hand made Mahogany & Ebony carvings. This painting takes me back to my pre-teen days when I visited the store, and he’d buy me lunch, a comic book or car magazine from a street vendor who set up daily at the market entrance.

This painting took patience and time but the outcome speaks for itself. The facemask that I wear on a daily basis is based on this painting. My cover pages on social media are of this image. Soon, this painting will be on a t-shirt.

Mambalicious Mask at Common House.

You may also recall from “My Creative Journey” blog that this was named Mambalicious by my niece Laura.

I think my late grandfather would approve. My hope is that one day, I’ll find a good carver who can turn this into a life-size carving.

Nthenya R - June 2020

“Creativity is the power to connect the seemingly
unconnected. ”

— William Plomer

Nthenya R. Acrylic Painting on 24”x 46” Canvas. Completed June 2020

This painting was based on a picture I took of Ruth Nthenya and my attempt at turning it into a painting. It was both a gift and a test of my ability.

A song that comes to mind is “Get Up, Stand Up” by Bob Marley. In my mind, there’s a strong correlation between the art and the song’s lyrics.

“Preacher man, don’t tell me
Heaven is under the earth
I know you don’t know
What life is really worth
It’s not all that glitters is gold
’Alf the story has never been told
So now you see the light, eh
Stand up for your rights, come on

Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights
Get up, stand up, don’t give up the fight
Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights
Get up, stand up, don’t give up the fight

Most people think
Great God will come from the skies
Take away everything
And make everybody feel high
But if you know what life is worth
You will look for yours on earth
And now you see the light…”

— Bob Marley

Painting Time-lapse of Matumaini (Hope)

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”

— Bob Ross

‘Matumaini’. Swahili Word for Hope.

This is my tribute to the struggle all over the world, with the juxtaposition that Africa is a gift to all. The hand signifies the ability to open up and give while showing much being taken.

I’ll blog on the experience and motivation later this year.

Thank you to all my friends and colleagues for the positive feedback. Glad to reconnect with so many of my friends. Art does bring us together.

Golden Baobab - May 2020

“Art takes nature as its model.”

— Aristotle

Golden Baobab. 24”x 36” Canvas. Completed May 2020

In my humble opinion, this painting turned out way better than I anticipated because one thing that worried me during sketching was how to show height of these majestic African trees. Growing up, whenever we drove to the Kenyan Coast, you’d see these magnificent, old and gorgeous trees all over. They are fascinating to see and I knew once the thought came to mind, that it had to be a great painting. I love it.

What song comes to mind when I look at this painting? Mighty Joshua’s “Clean Hands.” This song is simple and shares a positive message with a cool reggae beat.

Joshua is a friend who’s doing work to empower people in his community in Richmond, VA as well as the children of the Makindu Children’s Program in Kenya. Guess what type of trees you’ll find in and around Makindu? Yep… Baobabs’.

Magnificent Zebra - April 2020

“There’s no limit to how much you’ll know, depending how far beyond zebra you go.”

— Dr. Seuss

Magnificent Zebra. Acrylic Painting on a 24”x 36” Canvas. Completed April 2020

This is by far most of my friends’ favorite painting. It’s very cool in so many ways. The paint mix making up for white stripes was a mix I gambled with and had just enough to complete the entire painting. Did you notice the birdie on the Zebra? Nature is beautiful and this Zebra is magnificent. This painting also has the most offers on the table and is reserved.

What song comes to mind? Hmm…

The Salmon Dance by the Chemical Brothers. (Fish Pay Attention to the Moon)

I feel like this Zebra could walk out of the canvas, start a conversation with you and probably teach you how to dance.