I pray before drawing

 Chorwa arts is a marketing platform for  African artists. It aims to promote our artists to international markets and recently I got a chance to have a one on one with Ian Muindi, one of the artists listed there and one of the best portrait artists i have ever met.

Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Kenya; Isiolo and raised in Thika.

Tell us about what you do: your business model and the art mediums you use.
I basically offer my artistic services(portraits),varying from people's individual commissions to company projects.My services are run mainly through online social platforms where I find majority of my clients.Referrals from others also play a large part in creating my customer base.Most of my work is done  in graphite and charcoal. I am however not limited to the two.

When did you start doing art?
Practically, I'd say it's when I started learning how to read and write... that is at least the earliest memory I have of myself  doing something artistic.Going with a number, around 5 years old .From there it has been learning and learning everyday up to to where I thankfully am today.

What kind of creative patterns, routines or rituals do you have?
I normally pray  before starting any artwork.I prefer working on artworks early in the morning or late in the night;fewer distractions and better concentration  during those times .Though that is not my only preference. I find myself listening to music all through the entire creative process.Music is important to me.

Do you do paintings?
That's what am currently trying to familiarize myself with .I'm hoping to get better with time .

Which other art types would you like to pursue but haven't?
uuuuhm!I honestly don't know... I've tried my hand in quite a number.I'll find out.I guess
maybe I can come up with something out-of-the-box myself, who knows?

How do you deal with "artist blocks"?
I go out and play football;to jog up the brain and body. For me it has helped many times. I can also just lay back and enjoy music.

What do you think about the Chorwa Arts platform?
I believe it is an innovative startup with a good vision of the future of  arts here in Kenya and beyond. I am hopeful that it will grow bigger and bigger with time.

Which would you say has been your most favorite piece you have done so far?
I have several; it is hard to point a finger on just one. Here are some:

Who do you look up to in the art scene?
A number of people;Bujusanii, Andrew Kamiti, Elias Mung'ora, Bankslave...

Lastly, what advice would you give upcoming artists?⁠⁠⁠⁠
Whatever the branch of art you are in, do it because you love it... then thank the one who gives you the life to do it,everyday.


Here are some of his artworks. Check out Chorwa Art Page for more. If you have any inquiry or comment,leave it on the comment section below.