This archive report was first published on 3 July 2019.
Conservation Through Art: Daniel Njoroge's Journey ¶
July 3, 2019
From the President's house to conservation foundations across the country, Daniel Njoroge is a pioneer of not only African art but also Kenyan wildlife conservation. He has been able to stay relevant in the ever-migrating art world by preserving the country's depleting big five through detailed canvases and compositions.
With the newest edition of Forbes magazine highlighting the top billionaires as art collectors and investors, a major shift since 1984 when Daniel Njoroge was just starting out is noticeable. Through foreign buyers and collaborations, Mr. Njoroge has managed to build a prominent name for himself while perfecting his mark through color.
Mr. Njoroge leaves us with the fundamental understanding that 'when you paint that animal, you're conserving that animal.' Future art collectors, when you buy that painting, you're conserving that artist. You're conserving their journey, history, and you're creating a future that's a little more brighter.
As Kenya is just waking up to the value of art, Mr. Njoroge drives home a message of protection and inclusivity, stating that 'artists need to come together to have a voice.' He emphasizes the need for the same platform and support that the music industry has received, where artists have been given a platform to protect their craft.
From pencil to charcoal, watercolor to acrylic, Mr. Njoroge has grown as an artist by taking risks and opening doors for others to follow. Quitting his job in 1984 and jumping into his first exhibition at the new Stanley, he did not know if he could 'make money through [his] art work.' However, he found strength and confidence to be an artist, especially in a country where every parent wants a doctor, lawyer, or politician for a child.
