In the last few years, murals have become a common phenomenon in the streets of Nairobi. In particular, the iconic painting of the Extelecoms house has dominated Haile Sellasie Avenue.
However, despite the increasing number of iconic paintings in the capital, little is known of the artist behind some of the paintings.
Unknown to many is the artist, Viktart Mwangi who is credited with the artistry.
Mwangi is a 27-year-old graduate of Kenyatta University with a passion for art. The KU graduate undertook a degree course in Fine Arts and Design.
His talent has been recognised globally with his expertise being tapped in countries in such as Australia, Rwanda and Tanzania.
Mwangi's global recognition is credited to his 2020 art piece of the Extelecoms House, one of the biggest art pieces in East Africa and Africa.
"His colourful murals are developed from a combination of reality and fantasy designed to stand out in the walls they’re painted in," Center of Contemporary Artists stated on their website.
Apart from street art, the artist also does murals in residential homes and schools. One of his famous school works is the transformation of the St Kizito School for the Deaf buildings in collaboration with the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
His outstanding work at the institution attracted accolades from CBK boss Patrick Njoroge.
"Murals on Extelcoms House cover all four sides of the base of the building. Painted in bright colours, the murals tell the story of a Nation and its dreams for a future.
"Then there is the superb job at St Kizito’s Litein School for the Deaf, Kericho. The walls give visual excitement and motivation to the students. What a transformation! Thank you for making a difference!" he stated.
Mwangi also has a pictorial book - “Shift + Ctr + VIKTRT” that showcases some of his work. He states that he draws motivation for his creative work from the impact his work creates.
"I've learnt that effort is never wasted. That everything you pick up counts. I find myself thinking, that everything I've learnt till now prepared me for this moment, every time I face an obstacle.
"I took steps back and watched myself. I've learnt that I am happiest while doing what I love. My work gives me purpose. It distracts me from reality. In absence of something to do I begin to crack," he stated.
