Samuel Ouko

Age

30.

Where you're from?

I am from Nyanza, but live in Nairobi.

Why did you get interested in art?

I was always fascinated with nature hence I just found a way of recording what I liked. I studied for a diploma in drawing and painting and now work as a freelance illustrator. I am currently working on a storybook for children. Kenya in itself is a wonderful combination - like a beautiful sculpture - the mountains, the valleys and the plains. The wonderful colours of the plants, the wild, the sky, the waters and the people remind me of the perfect painting.

Is there any place in Kenya that inspires you in terms of your art?

The Rift Valley.

If you could pick your dream wildlife destination in Kenya - where would it be and what would you get up to there?

The Maasai Mara - I would love to mingle with the Maasai tribe.

What do you love about the Kenyan people?

Their creativity.

Who out of your musical/artistic influences would make the best game viewing partner and why?

David Shephard because he has an eye for nature.

Your best piece of art and why?

My first piece it was called the hidden.

How does it feel to be in Kenya now - what are travellers missing out on?

It feels peaceful and travellers are missing meeting some wonderfully talented artists as well as the wildlife.

Can you give adventurers the inside track on travel in your home destination - what should they bring to Kenya?

A smile is all you need.

Where's the first place you'd take a tourist to in Kenya?

First off I'd say, Karibu Kenya - welcome - then we would head to my house to gain a better understanding of each other.

"Must have" phrases for adventurers in Kenya?

karibu Kenya and hakuna matata.

You can contact Samuel Ouko at:
Nairobi National Museum website and at the Kuona Trust: Godown Arts Centre, Dunga Road, PO Box 4802, Nyayo Stadium 0506 Tel: (254 20) 550980, 557305 Telefax 557288
» www.kuonatrust.org