Uniting Fun, Art, and Philanthropy: The Vision Behind Munyao.art

Located in the heart of Charlottesville is Munyao.art, a venture transcending conventional art and merchandising boundaries with the store launching on March 25th, 2024. At Munyao.art, we're committed to more than just creating and selling merchandise. We intertwine fun, art, and philanthropy to benefit non-profits and communities both locally and globally. This post explores the essence of Munyao.art and our mission to make a difference through art.

Art has the power to transcend language barriers and touch hearts. We leverage this power at Munyao.art, turning artistic expressions into meaningful merchandise. Each item we create is part of a larger narrative that supports the causes of our non-profit partners. Currently, we are collaborating with United Way Charlottesville, Makindu Children's Program, and Just Help Africa. From the bustling streets of Charlottesville to the global corners where our friends and family reside, our goal is to engage a diverse community.

“Art has the power to transcend language barriers and touch hearts. ”

— Munyao.art

Makindu Kids T-Shirt Design. Based on the Makindu Kids Painting. One of Several Designs Coming to the Store.

Munyao.art's essence lies in its commitment to philanthropy. We believe art's true value is realized when it serves a purpose beyond aesthetics, becoming a change catalyst. By dedicating part of our proceeds to non-profits, we ensure each Munyao.art purchase contributes to a worthy cause. This model provides our non-profit partners with financial support and raises awareness about their invaluable work.

While our vision spans globally, Charlottesville's community remains at Munyao.art's heart. We're committed to engaging local artists, volunteers, and community members, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in our collective impact. We invite the local community to be part of our journey through events, workshops, and collaborations.

As we look to the future, we plan to expand Munyao.art's reach by inviting more artists, non-profits, and community members to join our cause. Our vision involves creating a global network united by the belief that art can be a powerful force for good. With innovative designs, sustainable practices, and strategic partnerships, we aim to make Munyao.art a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who believe in uniting fun, art, and philanthropy.

Munyao.art is more than a brand; it's a movement that strives to make a difference one piece of art at a time. By supporting Munyao.art, you contribute to a cause capable of changing lives. Join us in our mission to unite fun, art, and philanthropy, and together, let's make the world brighter.

Join the Community

"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.

My Enthusiasm for Joining the Advisory Council for the United Way of Greater Charlottesville

As the co-founder of Cvillegives.org and a person who deeply cares about giving back to communities, I'm thrilled to share that I'm joining the advisory council for the United Way of Greater Charlottesville. This is a significant milestone in my quest to make a positive impact, and I'm eager to bring my expertise to this worthwhile cause.

To me, philanthropy is more than just giving money or attending fundraisers—it's about actively engaging with the community to tackle pressing societal issues. This is why I'm drawn to the United Way's mission of mobilizing resources and rallying support to improve lives.

Charlottesville holds a special place in my heart and serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. I'm eager to contribute to the ongoing efforts to strengthen our community and ensure each individual has the chance to thrive.

One aspect of joining the advisory council that excites me is the chance to collaborate with others who share my passion for making a difference. We will use our combined knowledge, experience, and resources to find innovative solutions to challenges and create lasting change.

I'm also keen to explore new ways of community engagement and outreach, particularly in underserved areas. Whether it's supporting local nonprofits, or leading grassroots initiatives, I'm ready to contribute in any capacity to drive progress.

“United Way of Greater Charlottesville connects our community, enabling individuals and families to achieve their potential.”

— United Way's Mission Statement

In addition to my work in Charlottesville, I will bring a global perspective to the council, drawing from my experiences in Kenya. By sharing insights from my international work, I hope to contribute to a more comprehensive approach to philanthropy that crosses borders and fosters understanding and empathy.

I'm looking forward to meeting more members of the Charlottesville community and sharing my journey as an artist and philanthropist. Through open dialogue and meaningful connections, we can cultivate a culture of compassion and collaboration that will drive us towards a brighter future.

In closing, joining the advisory council for the United Way of Greater Charlottesville is a unique chance to channel my passion for giving back into action. I'm grateful to work alongside dedicated individuals who share my vision for a more just and equitable world, and I approach the journey ahead with enthusiasm and optimism. Together, we will make a difference—one community at a time.

Image credit: @unitedwaycville Instagram. Featured is Juandiego Wade, Board Chair (2019-2022) for the United Way of Greater Charlottesville, VA, who has recently been appointed as the mayor of Charlottesville.

Uniting for Change: The Journey of Just Help Africa

In May 2022, Tunji shared a story from his childhood with me. As we sat at the Common House, he recounted his experiences with diseases like cholera due to a lack of clean water. He described how he and other children in his area had to wake up early in the morning to fetch water, often traveling many miles from home before going to school. As a Kenyan, I could empathize with his experiences, as they mirrored stories I had heard in my own country. Furthermore, with my experience in founding non-profits and my passion for improving education in Kenya, his story resonated strongly with my philanthropic focus.

Tunji and Zikki sandwiching "‘Hydro’ a Painting Up for Auction to Raise Funds for Just Help Africa | Photo Credit: Natalie Batman

Inspired by this conversation, we saw an opportunity for change. Within a few weeks, we established Just Help Africa, a non-profit organization aimed at assisting these communities in sub-Saharan Africa. We embraced the African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together," and expanded our team.

In our first year, we collectively volunteered our time and raised enough funds to build our first well in Nigeria. This well now provides water to a community of over 7,000 people.

Children Fetching Water at a Well Location Completed by Just Help Africa in Nigeria.

Tank for Water Storage installed by Just Help Africa at the Well Location in Nigeria.

Now in our second year, we are finalizing a building renovation at Mbaikini Girls High School in Wamunyu, Kenya. This building will serve as a laboratory and teachers' office. In Nigeria, we are preparing to start another well project that will serve a community of over 10,000 people. For updates, follow us on Instagram or check our website.

Zikki & Remy Advising and Learning from the Students at Mbaikini Girls High School | Wamunyu, Kenya

We are fortunate to have a robust donor support system in Charlottesville, VA. I would like to personally acknowledge Eddie Karouliussen of Four Corners Real Estate and Ben Thomas of NWG Solutions. Both have offered invaluable advice, hosted the Just Help team, and contributed significantly towards our mission.

Ben and Eddie engaging the Crowd at a Hosted Just Help Africa Fundraiser | Photo Credit: Natalie Batman

We also have several other notable donors who have worked closely with us and continue to support our cause. You can find some of them listed on our website https://justhelpafrica.org.

If you are interested in learning more or contributing to our work in sub-Saharan Africa, please reach out to us through our website, justhelpafrica.org. You are always welcome to support by clicking the Donate button below:

Discovering Sugar Hollow: A Hidden Gem in Charlottesville

It was a brisk morning when a friend introduced me to the wonders of Sugar Hollow, nestled on the outskirts of Charlottesville. As we embarked on our morning hike, the crisp air filled our lungs, and the serene beauty of the surrounding nature unfolded before our eyes. It was a day of discovery, not just of the picturesque landscapes but also of the joy that comes with sharing such moments with a friend.

The C-Shaped Log | Sugar Hollow | Olympus OM-D Mark IIIs

I had my Olympus OM-D camera slung over my shoulder, ready to capture the essence of Sugar Hollow in all its glory. And it did not disappoint. The water, clear and inviting, danced under the morning sun, creating a symphony of light and shadows. Each frame I captured told a story of tranquility, of the harmony between nature and those who venture into its embrace.

The hike itself was nothing short of invigorating. With each step, we delved deeper into the heart of Sugar Hollow, uncovering its secrets one by one. The path, lined with the vibrant hues of nature, seemed to guide us through a realm untouched by time. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures life offers, often hidden in plain sight, waiting to be discovered.

Crisp Water | Sugar Hollow | Olympus OM-D Mark IIIs

As the day progressed, so did our appreciation for this hidden gem. Sugar Hollow, with its enchanting waters and captivating landscapes, was more than just a destination; it was a sanctuary, a place where one could find peace amidst the chaos of everyday life.

To my dear readers, I cannot recommend Sugar Hollow highly enough. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or someone seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this place promises an experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired. So grab your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and set off on an adventure to Sugar Hollow. It's not just a journey through nature, but a journey within, discovering the beauty of the world around us and within ourselves.

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.

Nature's Spectacle: The Rising Waters of Lake Nakuru

The Great Rift Valley, a geological wonder of our world, has been making headlines with its awe-inspiring natural phenomena. One such spectacle is the rising of Lake Nakuru, a captivating event that has been unfolding over recent years. In this blog, we will explore the intriguing story of how the Rift Valley is gradually transforming this iconic Kenyan lake.

The Rift Valley's Slow Split: The Great Rift Valley is an immense geological feature that stretches across East Africa. It's a place where the Earth's crust is pulling apart, creating a series of faults and valleys. This colossal process is occurring at a snail's pace, with the Rift Valley splitting at an astonishingly slow rate of about 2 millimeters per year. While this rate may seem negligible in the short term, it holds profound implications for the distant future. In tens of millions of years, this process will eventually sever East Africa from the rest of the continent.

“The Rift Valley splitting at an astonishingly slow rate of about 2 millimeters per year.”

— www.theguardian.com/world/2022/

The Hidden Aquifer Theory: One of the prevailing theories behind the rising waters of Lake Nakuru involves the discovery of a hidden underground aquifer. As the Rift Valley gradually separates, it creates fissures and fractures in the Earth's crust. These fractures can act as conduits for the movement of groundwater from previously unknown sources. Over time, this influx of fresh water has been making its way into the lakes of the Rift Valley, including Lake Nakuru.

Sinking Building by Front Gate | Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya | Olympus OM-D E-M10 iiiS | December, 2023

The Impact on Lake Nakuru: The rising waters of Lake Nakuru have had a profound impact on the local ecosystem. As the lake's boundaries expand, new habitats are created for both aquatic and terrestrial life. Flamingos, a renowned symbol of Lake Nakuru, have left the lake for reasons I’m yet to figure out. The bird population remains diverse.

Regardless, it’s an amazing National Park to visit and I highly recommend spending a couple days there. Check out Sarova Lion Hill while you’re there. Their service is superb.

Do Nothing Sunday!

True Story…

On a bright and breezy Sunday in Wamunyu, Kenya, Ndaka and Zikki embarked on a grand adventure of doing absolutely nothing. This wasn't just any lazy day; it was their inaugural "Do Nothing Sunday," and it was set to happen on Zikki's farm, a place where even the cows seemed to move in slow motion.

The main attraction was the farm's pond, a body of water so still, it looked like a giant had paused it mid-ripple. Here, the brothers settled in, armed with nothing but their wits and a knack for hilarious banter.

As soon as they sat down, Ndaka pointed out, "You know, if we were any lazier, we'd have to be watered twice a week." Zikki chuckled, watching a duck glide across the pond as if it too understood the assignment of doing nothing.

Their conversations were a delightful mix of playful teasing and wild storytelling. Ndaka shared an anecdote about a goat that mistook his trousers for a gourmet meal, and Zikki countered with a tale about the time he tried yoga in the barn and ended up in a standoff with a curious chicken.

The afternoon sun cast a warm glow as they discussed 'serious' topics like which farm animal would make the best mayor of Wamunyu. Ndaka voted for the wise old donkey, while Zikki insisted on the charismatic rooster.

As the sky turned orange, they had a mock debate on the entrepreneurial potential of selling bottled pond water as a 'rural experience.' "It's like a spa day and a nature hike in one sip!" Zikki exclaimed, almost toppling over with laughter.

Evening crept in, and with it, a cool breeze. The brothers, now lying on the grass, gazed up at the stars. "What if stars are just the universe's way of dotting its i's?" Ndaka mused, leading to a fit of giggles as they imagined the universe as a giant, cosmic writer, a bit careless with its punctuation.

Their Do Nothing Sunday, filled with laughter and light-hearted debates by the pond, became a treasured memory, a reminder that sometimes, the best way to connect is to simply sit back, relax, and let the conversation—and the laughter—flow.

The Shadow King: A Tale of Nature's Reflection and Legacy

Art Credit: Mitchel Ndaka with background assistance by Zikki Munyao

Long ago, there was a wise and benevolent king who loved nature. He was known for his deep connection with the environment and his kingdom flourished under his rule. This king had a special bond with trees, believing them to be the guardians of the earth. He spent much time in the forests, often meditating under a particular ancient tree, which he considered his confidant and advisor.

As the king grew older, he wished to leave a lasting legacy that would remind his people of the importance of living in harmony with nature. He sought the help of Ndaka, a renowned artist and visionary in his kingdom, known for his unique ability to capture the essence of nature in his art.

Ndaka, inspired by the king's love for trees, created a special reflective paint using natural ingredients. He carefully applied this paint to the king's favorite tree. The paint was invisible by day but would reflect the king's image in the shadows at night, especially when the moon was full.

The king was deeply moved by this tribute and decreed that the tree be protected and revered as a symbol of unity between humanity and nature. He passed away not long after, and his image appearing on the tree became a revered phenomenon. People from all over the kingdom would come to see the king's shadow on the tree, reminding them of his wisdom and his teachings about living in harmony with the environment.

Ndaka's creation was not just a tribute to the king but also an enduring reminder of the connection between humans and the natural world. His innovative use of reflective natural paint and his deep understanding of the king's love for nature made this miraculous reflection possible. The image of the king on the tree, especially visible in the dark, became a symbol of hope, wisdom, and the eternal bond between humans and the earth.

Afro Woman Evening Art

Under the evening sky, I’ve brought to life an enchanting scene on my canvas.

There’s this majestic tree, and within it, a captivating image of a woman emerges. Her hair, a stunning afro, is playfully knotted into puffs, adding a whimsical charm. Her sharp, cartoonish nose pairs perfectly with her bold, red lips, from which she’s blowing delicate love hearts into the night.

This artwork is a blend of nature, fantasy, and a dash of romance, all wrapped up in the tranquil embrace of the evening.

#ArtLovers #EveningInspiration #NatureMeetsArt #munyaoart

Friends Meet Up in Raleigh, NC

For over a decade now, this group of friends has made time at least once a year to meet up and enjoy together. It's a Brotherhood born from connections built from childhood days and through others. We're a unit.

The group is closer to 15 Diaspora friends all from Kenya. These are the few that made it to Raleigh, NC for our first meet up since COVID.

Great friends

Massive Sky in Iowa

When driving through parts of the Midwest like Iowa, take time to look up at the vastness of the sky. It’s massive.

Combine harvester briefly driving on a paved road in Iowa

Harvesting in Iowa, 2021

Operating heavy equipment is such a passion of mine. Never afraid to work hard.

Before operating the John Deere Combine Harvester

Kalasinga The Bull, Charges Catherine

By Catherine Wambua Soi

Let me tell you a story about "Kalasinga".

No, not an actual Kalasinga - from the Sikh community. 

Another one - beautiful, proud with black and white patches, a turban like head. Gentle eyes that can fool anyone.

He stood out from the rest because of his patchwork & to me - the eyes.

I met him ever so briefly.... but it was intense.

I will start from the beginning.

We were camping in Wamunyu, Eastern Kenya on a pristine fifty-acre piece of land owned by my cousins Zikki and Ruth Munyao. 

Our view was a dam which often attracts ducks and other birdlife. Monkeys have also been spotted in the surroundings but weirdly enough there are very few crawling bugs including mosquitoes. EUREKA!

Bamboo and other indigenous trees that are many years old provide the shade needed in a region many mistakenly say is dry and harsh.

 There are mango trees everywhere you look. This part of the country produces some of the best mangoes and we were right in time for the mango season.

When we arrived, the hosts took us round the property explaining the turns and twists of the terrain. 

They showed us a cow shed. The family has several head of cattle.

We did not see the Friesians during the tour but Zikki and Ruth made a point of warning us about one particular bull -the no nonsense "Kalasinga" with a penchant for charging at anyone and anything unprovoked.

So, when I went for my morning jog, I was very aware of my surroundings and the big bully bull.

 I did not see him on my way out, but I did see the rest of the animals and tried to make my presence known to the herdsman, Njoroge.

 Well, let's just say I failed to properly catch his attention because what the hosts did not tell us is that Njoroge has a hearing disability. 

I moved on thinking to myself "if I don't approach the cows, Kalasinga will not feel threatened"

Boy was I wrong. On my way back to camp I spotted Kalasinga with the rest of the herd. They were "peacefully" grazing behind the shed..."all good" I said to myself, adjusted my earphones, pumped up my music as I wound down my jog. I casually glanced back and there he was in all his aggression charging at me.

My adrenaline kicked in pretty fast. I sprinted like my life depended on it -I think it really did.

Right about then I also started screaming. Now I'm not a screamer so from my mind's perspective it sounded more like a squeal, a poor one. 

It however seemed to do the trick. I think Kalasinga met his match. That scream or squeal or whatever stopped him right on his tracks. I on the other was a bunch of nerves and still high on adrenaline so I did not stop till I got back to the campsite.

We joked about Kalasinga's temper and his dislike of anything he is not familiar with. 

That's farm life -you meet all sorts. My encounter with the patched, beautiful, angry bull was one of the highlights.

 When I saw "Kalasinga" again as we were leaving our serenity, heading back to the hustle and bustle of the city, I told myself that somehow, I will one day get him to like me.

See, I'm a big animal lover and I'm yet to meet one that I cannot charm and one day, maybe, just maybe, I'll turn that aggressive beast into a mushy, cuddly teddy bear.

 But on hindsight......NOT! 

Catherine Wambua-Soi is Al Jazeera's East and Central Africa producer. She covers Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia, DR Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti, Central African Republic, Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda. She was nominated for an EMMY award for our news coverage in Burkina Faso in 2019.

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

Heavy Equipment and Farm Life

A snap shot into my farming experience at a friend’s farm in Iowa. Operating heavy equipment is a passion driven by my love of trucks and buses since childhood.

Hard work and getting dirty are part of the job, and I came ready. Best part was the weather where it remained summer-like for the 9 day duration spent out here.

Last year, temperatures averaged 22 degrees Fahrenheit which aren’t ideal for me since I’m a warm weather kinda guy.

Anyway, got to harvest with the Combine Harvester, Tilled with the Caterpillar, Drove the 18 Wheeler and even operated the backhoe. Good times!

Things I'd Like to See in the World

“It may well be that we will have to repent in this generation. Not merely for the vitriolic words and the violent actions of the bad people, but for the appalling silence and indifference of the good people who sit around and say, “Wait on time.””

— Martin Luther King Jr.

1. End to killing of wild animals, especially Elephants & Rhino

2. Every child literate and educated

3. People putting people first

4. Healthy people with access to healthcare

5. Philanthropy be cool

6. Living simple be an aspiration

7. More women leaders

Windmills in Iowa. I took this picture on one of the local roads.

This is a living blog that I will continually update over time. We can collectively make our homes, communities, countries better by planning and working toward things that will help ourselves and others.

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.