Edwin Wainaina, an artist from Nairobi, Kenya, creates illustrations, murals, and animations and his work tells stories, drawing inspiration from his own life and the vibrant culture of Kenya.
As an artist, he can find inspiration everywhere – in people’s stories, films, and music. He believes you just need to “stop and smell the roses” to find it. This approach has shaped his art, making it not just visually appealing, but also full of emotion, bold storytelling, and a strong sense of his own identity and Kenyan spirit.
Let’s delve deeper into the mind of this creative force.
Hi Ed, what do you do?
Hi, I’m an illustrator, muralist and animator based in Nairobi, Kenya.
What inspires you daily?
Oh, would it be corny if I said everything? I’m inspired by my personal journey. Other people’s stories (Any background), Film, music. The list can go on and on. Inspiration is everywhere. I say, “you just got stop and smell the roses “
Looking back at your artistic journey, what’s the most significant shift you’ve observed in your style or perspective?
Looking back, the biggest shift has been learning to trust my voice. I started off trying to “get it right,” but over time, I have embraced boldness, emotion, and storytelling as my signature. Now, my style is not just about how it looks, it’s about how it feels. There’s more soul, more Kenya, more me in every piece.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned about the power of visual communication?
Storytelling. Even if it’s just a moment. I’m able to share a minute with the viewer. They’re able to understand life and experience, life situation through my lens.
Also allowing the viewer to block away the world for a moment and enjoy my art with me.
When faced with creative block, what’s your go-to strategy for reigniting your inspiration?
Easy. Travel, travel, travel. Watching documentaries. Being around other artists and enjoying their craft. Gallery visits
What’s the most surprising or unexpected thing you’ve learned about yourself through your art?
I don’t know if it’s magic. I can learn a new style of art in just days. And that’s why I’m always like a crazy scientist. Experimenting. This tends to keep the journey fun cause it’s not about the destination.
How has working on projects for established brands shaped your understanding of the relationship between art and commerce?
It has shown me that art is not just for galleries, with the digital era, it can hustle too! It has taught me how creativity and strategy can blend, turning my ideas into visuals that not only look good but sell. Art meets commerce when storytelling meets purpose, and I have loved finding that sweet spot.
As a Kenyan designer, what does it mean to you to have your work featured on such an iconic Kenyan brand like Kenya Cane?
It means the world! As a Kenyan designer, having my work featured on a legendary brand like Kenya Cane feels like being woven into the fabric of our culture. It is pure joy, knowing my art gets to live on a bottle that’s been part of celebrations, stories, and memories across generations. I’m not just creating, I’m becoming part of a legacy, and that’s magic!
What inspired the visuals behind the logo?
The Kenyan culture was my compass, especially the magic that happens when the old and new generations meet. I was inspired by elements that both generations instantly get, those nostalgic, proudly Kenyan visuals that still feel fresh and bold today. You know that perfect balance between “aii, I remember that!” and “yo, that is fire!”
And in true Ed style, I had a whole stash of designs (yes, many) that I was excited to share with the team. It was such a pleasure showing the range, how I can remix culture, style, and story into visuals that feel rooted and new.
What is your favourite element on the pack and why?
That’s like choosing a favourite kid haha. I can say the matatu culture. It’s a moving canvas. Do I need to say more?
Which of the Kenyan elements was the most challenging to incorporate, and why?
The animal was definitely the hardest! Kenya has so many iconic animals, again it was like choosing a favorite child. But I finally settled on the flamingoes of Lake Nakuru. They’re not only striking and elegant, but they also carry that unmistakable Kenyan charm. Plus, their vibrant color and movement brought the design to life in such a unique way!
As an artist, what message do you hope the overall design conveys about the Kenyan culture?
I hope the design proudly shouts: “This is Kenya bold, vibrant, and full of soul!” I wanted it to celebrate our culture as something alive and evolving where tradition meets creativity, and where every pattern, color, and symbol tells a story. It is a love letter to Kenya’s spirit: joyful, resilient, and always expressive.
What do you hope people will always remember about your work?
That Ed is a crazy vibrant artist always on the go. I hope people always remember the feeling, that spark of joy, pride, and connection. I want my work to leave a mark that says, “This is us. This is Kenya.” Bold, unapologetic, full of rhythm and story. If it makes someone smile, reflect, or feel seen… then I have done my job.