Jimmy Kitheka

Biography

Jimmy Kitheka, born in 1993 in Nairobi, Kenya, is an emerging artist whose work is rooted in an impressionistic style. Captivated by urban landscapes and dreamlike scenes, he creates atmospheric works through shadow play and blurred effects, evoking a deep sense of nostalgia. His paintings offer a journey through time, revisiting life in Nairobi during the 1960s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. After completing his formal art studies, Jimmy refined his practice over six years under the mentorship of renowned Kenyan artist Patrick Mukabi at the Dust Depo Art Studio. During this time, he also led numerous workshops, including initiatives supported by the United Nations (Artists for Development), reflecting his commitment to both community and artistic engagement. In 2022, Jimmy took part in a residency between Venice and Macerata, Italy, which culminated in a solo exhibition with AKKA Project held concurrently with the 18th Venice Architecture Biennale. In 2023, he co-founded the Hive Art Studio collective alongside two fellow artists, further cementing his role in Kenya’s contemporary art scene. Often referred to as the "Kenyan Edward Hopper," Jimmy Kitheka is a young artist with a promising future, steadily establishing a distinctive voice in the art world. Solo Exhibitions 2020: AKKA Project, Venice (Italy) 2019: British Institute of East Africa, Unfading Times Art Exhibition, Nairobi (Kenya) Selected Group Exhibitions 2020: Kerry Packer Gallery, The Sanaa Exhibition, Adelaide (Australia) 2020: GoDown Art Center, The Manjano Exhibition, Nairobi (Kenya) 2020: Restaurant Collectif, Vernissage Art Show, Nairobi (Kenya) 2019: National Museum of Kenya, Essence of Time II, Nairobi 2018: United Nations, Mini Exhibition, Nairobi 2018: Tafaria Center for the Arts, Gallery Opening Exhibition, Nairobi 2018: International School of Kenya, ISK FOTA Art Show, Nairobi 2016–2018: National Museum of Kenya, Affordable Art Show, Nairobi 2017: AARTC, African Art Group Exhibition, Nairobi 2018: Sanaa Festival, Sanaa Festival Art Exhibition, Adelaide (Australia) 2016: The GoDown Art Center, Manjano Art Exhibition, Nairobi 2017: Kuona Collective Art Center, National Art Fair Exhibition, Nairobi