In a world often dominated by conventional career paths and societal expectations, some individuals choose to take a leap of faith and pursue their true passions.
McDonald Orangi, a self-taught artist and biotechnology graduate, is a shining example of someone who dared to follow his heart, forging a unique and inspiring path that blends art and social impact.
Here is his story as told by WoK.
After completing his studies at Masinde Muliro University, McDonald found himself recruited to the Kenya Medical Research Institute where he earned a salary of Ksh 20,000 per month.
“I asked myself why wait a month to earn what I can make within eight hours. I saw that was a loss because I had to pay rent, groom well, send my mum some money and still be comfortable,” he shared druing an Interview with the star.
However, he quickly realized that the path he was on didn’t resonate with his true calling.
Despite his father’s initial reservations about his decision to leave a seemingly stable job, McDonald decided to break free and dive headfirst into the world of art.
“I kept nurturing the talent because I am passionate and believe in what I am doing,” McDonald said.
His unwavering belief in his artistic abilities fueled his transition from biotechnology to brushstrokes.
His lifelong passion for art, nurtured since his younger days, found new life as he embarked on a journey to create meaningful and impactful pieces of work.
Spending an average of eight hours on every artwork, he has completed more than 400 pieces to date. On a weekly basis, he crafts three portraits, generating an average income of Ksh7,500 per portrait and accumulating a gross monthly earnings of approximately Sh80,000.
He explained that the framing process is what consumes a significant amount of time, as he meticulously tailors each frame by acquiring the necessary components.
His pricing structure varies: an A4 portrait is valued at Sh5,000, an A3 portrait at Sh7,500, and an A2 portrait at Sh12,000.
McDonald’s art goes beyond aesthetics; it is a medium for communication, a tool to raise awareness, and a mirror to reflect societal issues.
His pieces carry weighty messages about corruption, domestic violence, and xenophobia, showcasing his desire to use his talent for social good.
Drawing inspiration from his surroundings, especially the less fortunate in society, his art serves as a powerful voice for those who often go unheard.
Creating hyperrealistic portraits, pen drawings, and paintings, McDonald pours his heart and soul into each piece.
His dedication is evident in the time he invests – an average of eight hours per portrait, resulting in over 400 pieces of art so far.
His dedication has not gone unnoticed, as his work has gained traction on social media, particularly Facebook, where he has found a cost-effective and accessible platform to showcase his creations.
The power of social media not only provides McDonald a platform to exhibit his art but also becomes a marketing tool.
He leverages celebrity pages, crafting portraits of famous individuals and tagging them. When these celebrities share his work, he gains followers and potential clients.
McDonald’s art has become a conversation starter, an invitation to engage with societal issues, and a catalyst for change.
While McDonald’s journey is peppered with accomplishments, it hasn’t been without its challenges.
The costs of materials are a constant hurdle. A pack of pencils or a canvas can often stretch his budget, emphasizing the need for each piece to be more than just aesthetically pleasing – it must be a wise investment.
Furthermore, he has encountered clients who refuse to pay after receiving their commissioned works, revealing the challenges artists can face in the realm of business.
However, McDonald’s story is not just about personal triumphs; it’s about giving back. He interacts with street children, mentors prisoners on art, and even adopted a child of his own.
Despite personal setbacks and adversity, he continues to believe in the power of art to transform lives and impact society positively.
Looking ahead, McDonald’s vision extends beyond his individual journey. He plans to open his art gallery in Kakamega, a space that will not only showcase his work but also provide opportunities for others.
