This archive report was first published on 12 August 2019.
From Embu to the Nation: A Journey of Artistic Courage ¶
John Nyaga, an illustrator for the East African and the Daily Nation, has a remarkable story of perseverance and passion for art. Born and raised in Embu County, Nyaga's talent as an artist blossomed in the midst of rivers, plains, and hills.
As a young boy, Nyaga's imagination was sparked by the simple images he saw in his siblings' school books. Newspapers and magazines were rare, but he found solace in the illustrations that adorned the pages of his siblings' textbooks.
Despite his talent, Nyaga faced numerous challenges in his educational journey. His teachers often mocked and scorned his artistic abilities, and he was even beaten for drawing too well. However, Nyaga's passion for art remained unquenched, and he continued to draw despite the obstacles.
It wasn't until he met a teacher who appreciated his art that Nyaga began to see the value in his talent. The teacher advised him to register for art exams and seek the guidance of a private tutor. Nyaga took the advice to heart and eventually passed his exams, going on to become an English and Arts teacher.
However, Nyaga's journey was not without its challenges. He faced self-doubt and uncertainty, and it took him six months to find his footing in the art world. But with the help of a kind receptionist at the Nation Centre, Nyaga finally found his calling as an illustrator.
Today, Nyaga hopes to inspire and mentor young artists, using his experiences to impact the society positively with his illustrations. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, our talents can be our greatest strengths.
