Newton Muturi is a rising star in the art world, whose journey is as compelling as his creations. Hailing from Nairobi, Kenya, Muturi’s artistic flair was ignited during his formative years, where he found solace and inspiration in the streets of his hometown. Despite facing financial challenges that initially led him down a different path, Muturi’s unwavering passion for art ultimately guided him back to his true calling. His eclectic style, influenced by his surroundings and diverse interests, reflects experiences and a boundless imagination. With each masterpiece, Muturi continues to carve out his unique legacy, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of contemporary art. In a recent interview with iBAND Magazine in Lagos, Newton shares his journey and vision with Ireho Aito.

Could you share with us a bit about your upbringing and how it influenced your journey as an artist

My passion for drawing started early on. I remember copying cartoons from newspapers, TV shows, and comic books as a kid. My older cousin was also an artist, so sometimes I would copy some of his works. Even in class, I found myself sketching on my books and desk. One time, I even earned some money by helping classmates with drawing diagrams for homework. It wasn’t much, but it made me smile.

What was it like growing in Nairobi, and how has the city inspired or influenced your artwork?
Growing up in Nairobi was great. Many of my schoolmates shared my love for comics and cartoons, which was awesome. As an adult, I’ve met multiple talented artists in Nairobi. Their unique styles and skills inspire me a lot. Plus, it gives me fresh perspectives on how to approach more complex artworks.

Tell us a bit about your educational background and how it has shaped your artistic skills and style?

Growing up, I never really imagined I’d become an artist so i didn’t consider art as a career option . My education hasn’t really played any big part in my artistic journey.

Which schools did you attend and were there any particular experiences or mentors that greatly impacted your artistic development?

I never got the chance to join any art school. After completing high school, I joined college to study hospitality and food production but i later dropped out due to financial struggles. I dropped out of college in 2020, which is the same year I started painting. I was visiting a friend’s studio and I loved the Idea of visualizing your ideas on canvas. Before that I only drew on paper with pencils , so the idea of using paints intrigued me. So I decided to try and i came to fall in love with painting. I painted for a while but i wasn’t consistent since I was doing article writing as a full time gig. However, since the rise of AIs like Chat GPT, many companies opted for AI generated content since it was cheaper. This led to a decline in my writing gigs. Eventually, I decided to focus solely on painting.

Who are your role models in the art world, and how have they influenced your career path?

Leonardo da Vinci particularly stands out as a beacon of inspiration. His boundless creativity and multifaceted talents motivate me to explore diverse artistic avenues. Inspired by his versatility, I’ve ventured into making furniture’s, like coffee tables and kitchen tables, even though I never studied woodwork. I’ve also decided to make my own comic book which is currently in progress. I hope to publish it by September this year.

Can you share some insights into the exhibitions you’ve participated in so far and your future showcases?
While I haven’t participated in many exhibitions, the ones I did were memorable. One particular exhibition in 2021 stands out since I was just starting out as an artist. I was basically a beginner at that point. It was held in a garden, and I remember I was seated on a bench and two girls later came and sat there. I was right next to them so I couldn’t help but hear their conversation. I heard one them telling the other how they were intrigued by one painting in particular. A lot of Artists were exhibiting their art so I looked at the painting they were talking about and I saw they were talking about my piece. During the course of the day, I also got compliments from multiple strangers about my artworks. Overhearing strangers discuss my artwork, especially the ones that intrigued them, filled me with pride and motivated me to keep painting. I hope to host grand, private exhibitions showcasing my best works someday.

What themes or motif do you often explore in your artwork and what draws you to these particular subjects?

I don’t limit myself to one theme. Whether it’s African themes, cartoons, or landscapes, I draw whatever captures my imagination or captivates me at the moment. My art reflects my diverse interests and inspirations.

Where do you envision yourself in your career as an artist in the next five years?

Looking ahead, I envision a future filled with artistic fulfillment. Hosting grand exhibitions, publishing my comic book series, and establishing a successful woodworking company are among my ambitious goals—a testament to the limitless possibilities of artistic expression. With determination and dedication, I’m poised to carve out a lasting legacy in the world of art.

Interview/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Pictures/Newton