Michael Soi, a luminary in Kenyan art, wields his paintbrush as a potent tool of social and political commentary. After graduating from Nairobi’s Creative Arts Center in 1995, Soi embarked on a journey of insightful observation and cartoonist finesse, transforming canvases into mirrors reflecting local and global politics.
Michael Soi brings his distinctive style to life with a symphony of vibrant colors and an intelligent edge. His portraits capture the essence of Kenyan life, interwoven with layers of political satire. With every stroke, he unearths the underbelly of societal dynamics engaging viewers in a thought-provoking dance of colors and ideas.
In 2015, Soi’s spotlight grew brighter with the “Shame in Venice” series. Through this body of work, he voiced the absence of Kenyan artists in their pavilion at the Venice Biennale 2015. With his art as a megaphone, he exposed a reality that resonated beyond borders, urging a reevaluation of the art world’s dynamics.
His art infuses vibrant colors and an intelligent edge, bringing his distinctive style to life. He tells stories of societal issues and injustices with enthusiasm. His work brazenly confronts government corruption forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. Furthermore, he challenges the stigma surrounding sex in Kenya, allowing different audiences to confront their fantasies.
Beyond his creative endeavors, Soi’s legacy is marked by his courage to articulate the unspoken. His artworks are not mere paintings; they’re conversations. They prompt us to gaze beyond the surface and explore the intricate layers of our surroundings. They invite us to engage, question, and introspect our intentions subject to the world around us.
In a world where art can sometimes seem disconnected from reality, Soi’s work is a refreshing reminder of its potency. With a keen eye for observation and a knack for satire, he has shaped perceptions and raised awareness, proving that art can drive transformation. He just concluded an amazing exhibition at One Off Contemporary Art Gallery titled, Soi: The Three Chapters. This exhibition honors the legacy of his father and daughter, highlighting three decades of masterpieces.
Soi’s journey continues to evolve, his brushstrokes capturing the pulse of contemporary Kenya. As he unveils his stories through colors and lines, he navigates uncharted waters reminding us that art is a vessel for change. He adds a new layer to his legacy with every painting cementing his place as a beacon of artistic activism.
