Meet the artist

Edwin Maina

Edwin Maina is a Nairobi-based, self-taught Kenyan photographer who uses photography as his artistic outlet to replace words, capturing the environments he inhabits and the people he meets. His work is for the culture—to put it on the global map and share the unique experiences that connect and define it. Through styling, set creation, and photography, Edwin reimagines African culture in ways rarely explored before, blending fashion and art photography to tell compelling stories. A painter since childhood, he seamlessly merges his artist’s eye with his photographic vision, finding inspiration in collaborations with professionals across the creative arts industry. Edwin is also a member of the Urban Pitchaz, a four-man artist collective dedicated to telling authentic African stories through fashion and photography.

Works by Edwin Maina

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    Deep talk with the artist

    The recognition of Edwin's talent extends far beyond his home country, with his work gracing the pages of prestigious publications such as Vogue, The Wilson Quarterly, and Fashion Scout—a testament to his skill and creativity. Collaborations with renowned brands like Spotify, Diageo, and Johnnie Walker further underscore hiscommercial success, allowing him to reach even wider audiences with his artistry. Yet,despite his achievements on the global stage, Edwin remains deeply rooted in his community, using his platform to give back and inspire the next generation of creatives. Edwin stands as a beacon of creativity, weaving intricate narratives that celebrate the kaleidoscope of African culture through his unique blend of fashion and fine art photography. With each click of his camera, he endeavors to capture not just images, but the very essence of his people—their beauty, richness, and unity—sharing their stories with the world. At the heart of Edwin's artistic journey lies a profound sense of purpose—to elevate his community onto the global stage, to showcase their unique experiences, and to foster a sense of unity and pride. This mission permeates every aspect of his work, infusing it with passion, authenticity, and soul. As a key member of the Urban Pitchaz collective, Edwin played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the creative landscape in 2020. Together with his fellow artists, they introduced fresh, vibrant concepts that captivated audiences both locally and internationally, putting Kenya firmly on the map as a hub of artistic innovation.

    His talks at Alliance Française on visual storytelling and fashion conceptualization serve as a testament to his commitment to nurturing talent and sharing his skills with others. Collaboration lies at the heart of Edwin's creative endeavors. What sets Edwin apart as a photographer is not just his technical skill or aesthetic sensibility, but his ability to infuse each project with a sense of purpose and meaning. His work transcends mere imagery, inviting viewers to see the world through his eyes—to find beauty and inspiration in the ordinary moments of everyday life. In Edwin's lens, even the most mundane objects become imbued with significance, telling stories of resilience, hope, and humanity. His photography is a testament to the power of observation and the endless possibilities of creativity, reminding us that in every moment, there is something to be seen, something to be learned, and something to be celebrated.