In Nairobi, Kenya, Thandiwe Muriu shines as a talented photographer who blends indigenous fabrics and everyday items into her art. Her love for photography began at 14 when her dad handed her a camera, sparking a passion she never let go of.
Breaking norms, Thandiwe became Kenya’s first female commercial photographer. But it was her “Camo” series in 2020 that truly wowed people. These photos showed women wrapped in colorful wax fabrics, mixing portraits with optical illusions.
What makes Thandiwe’s art special is how she weaves in wax prints, regular stuff, and African sayings, making each piece rich with meaning and culture.
Beyond her art, Thandiwe aims to empower women, uplift Kenyans, and give a voice to the undervalued. She wants her work to tell stories and inspire change.
Speaking about her journey, Thandiwe said, “As the only woman in the Kenyan commercial photography scene, I had a lot of questions and struggled with my identity. But there was one thing I was sure of, I didn’t want to just record stories, I wanted to create them.”
Through her photos and art, Thandiwe Muriu champions diversity, representation, and the power of creativity. Her work encourages us to embrace our stories and redefine what’s possible. She’s a true inspiration in a world hungry for new voices and fresh perspectives.
