This archive report was first published on 27 September 2019.
Wycliffe Omondi's journey to becoming Nairobi's whisky bottle artist began in 2017 when he moved to the city from Siaya County. Initially, he was disappointed by the stark contrast between the 'green city in the sun' and the reality of garbage-filled streets, drains, and rivers.
However, this experience sparked his decision to rid the environment of glass and plastic waste, specifically bottles. Omondi now collects empty whisky bottles to create unique art products, including flower vases and interior décor artefacts.
His creative process involves rummaging through bins in the city, cleaning the bottles, and then using yarn to knit colorful balls. He carves out plastic bottles to create different shapes, which he decorates on the whisky bottles before binding them with glue. The glass bottle serves as the main vase, while the plastic designs act as branches. Omondi then rolls the remaining yarn into pompom flowers.
He sells his creations at Kamukunji and Gikomba markets for Sh200 per vase, making between 20 and 30 flowers vases every week. Despite the initial challenges, customers have embraced his innovative products, particularly those who value creativity and environmental conservation.
Omondi's ultimate goal is to see glass and plastic bottles being put to good use, saving nature and inspiring others to find ways to utilize waste. He aims to partner with event organizers to furnish event venues with his décor items, targeting corporate events, birthdays, and wedding ceremonies.
