About the Artist

Gathonie is a Kenyan visual artist whose work celebrates African identity, storytelling, and heritage through vibrant, expressive paintings. Inspired by the rich tapestry of everyday life, her art explores themes of self, spirituality, and cultural memory.

Raised in Nairobi, Gathonie began drawing at a young age, often sketching the world around her. What began as a childhood passion became a lifelong calling. Though she studied law at university, her creative spirit remained strong, and she eventually returned to painting—her first love—as a way of preserving stories, emotions, and ancestral knowledge.

Her work is characterized by bold color palettes, symbolic compositions, and a deep reverence for African traditions and contemporary experiences—and more recently, animals. Influenced by Pop Art, screen printing, and high-contrast imagery, Gathonie allows each piece to evolve organically. Every brushstroke is layered with intention, drawing from history, emotion, and everyday observation.

Through her art, Gathonie seeks to reclaim narratives and create space for joy, reflection, and cultural pride.

Her work has been exhibited at notable events including the Affordable Art Show at the Kenya National Museum for three consecutive years, the Sephrin Exhibition – Image of Africa in February 2024, and Under the Swahili Tree Art Exhibition – Vibrant Visuals: Expression in Colour from February to June 2024.

Her pieces have found homes across Kenya and abroad, resonating with collectors who are drawn to their warmth, depth, and authenticity.

Gathonie's voice is both personal and universal, offering a visual language that honors the past while engaging with the present—always rooted in color, story, and spirit.