MEET THE ARTIST - MONICA OBAGA

Monica Obaga is a graphic designer and administrator based in Los Angeles. 
 
She was instrumental in the creation and growth of one of Africa’s first VOD channels, buni.tv. She is passionate about instilling a sense of ownership in Kenyan (and African) cultures and histories, and learning everything about everything. Don’t get her started on tea, music or Doctor Who.

 

Where do you draw inspiration from?

 I mainly draw from by paper and textile crafts, architecture and photography. Mainly I am inspired by my own sense memory of Kenya, where I've spent most of my life. 

You have worked on the bulk of the visual representations Hadithi, what is the process like for you? How would you describe translating letters into visuals?

 It was very meaningful. I appreciate the chance to catch a glimpse of the inner life of a Kenyan. What a gift! 

What do you consider the role of art in society?

Art is what is observed. At its best, it gives the beholder a way to express or understand a thought or feeling that was yet fully formed, and the artist a chance to work through some issues. ;)

What super power would you have and why?

Time/space travel. I mean, all of time and space!

What are you excited about right now?

 Everything. Every time I learn about something I didn't know before, it's like I'm a kid again and the world is new again. There is so much sadness and confusion in the world right now, but the amount of pushback love is having is absolutely heroic. Think about the girl that wanted to go to China. Before I finished thinking around it, someone made it happen. Kenyans rock!

 

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