Artist Statement
Shamba [Swahili for 'plantation'] refers to an agroforestry system practiced in East Africa, where different crops are combined together and coexist with other natural elements — as opposed to modern day monocultures that typically grow only one type of crop. The name resembles the diversity in my work and the cohesive application of different mediums.
Art to me is experimental, it has to be something that I'm not quite sure how it will work out. A big part of it is the excitement of trying something new, but also to give inspiration a chance to find me while working.
I find myself working with 3D forms and irregular surfaces most of the time. I'm easily tempted to use thick mediums and incorporate interesting textures I can get from things around the studio: sand, concrete, paper, wood, fabric, plaster, molding paste, cardboard, a severely neglected dry paintbrush, etc.
Given my intuitive approach, I appreciate the inherent variations in my work, where subtle differences in form, texture, and colour, stem mainly from the characteristics of the materials used. These distinctive elements contribute to the individuality and exclusive character of each piece. From bold and colourful pieces tending as mood boosters, to intricate sculptures that invite the viewer to explore new dimensions of space and texture, each piece is crafted to offer a unique and compelling perspective on the power of art to influence it's surrounding.