Wanjira Kinyua
Illustrator
She/Her
Kenya, Eastern Africa
Wanjira (Wan-jee-ra) is a freelance illustrator residing in Nairobi. She graduated from the University of Nairobi with a BA in Design. Nature serves as Wanjira's greatest muse, and she is a passionate advocate for environmental conservation. She often incorporates intricate depictions of birds, insects, and the lush greenery surrounding her, alongside culturally significant motifs.
Q&A
Tell us something interesting about yourself:
I have Intermittent Exotropia whereby if I concentrate too much on something, one eye will start looking outwards.
Current job title:
Illustrator.
How would you describe your identity?
Kenyan.
Tell us your favourite medium for reading:
Physical books.
Tell us your favourite location for reading:
I can probably read anywhere, but my favourite place is reading in bed.
Book title:
Xirsi and the Final Battle.
What inspired your creative process in writing or illustrating your book?
I like watching shows that feel closely related to the subject matter, and for this book, the show Jentry Chau vs. The Underworld served as a big inspiration.
Favourite character or moment from the book – and why?
Mwikali — her character has developed so much since she was first introduced. She is strong, confident, compassionate, and finally has a place where she belongs with the other Intasimi warriors.
How would you describe your artistic or writing style in three words?
Vibrant, experimental, playful.
Materials and techniques used for this book’s illustrations:
Digital illustrations.
Connect
IG: @born_on_the_way
