ERICK MAINA
The bustling streets of Kenya especially in the capital city, county 047 Matatus are pimped with graffiti and art. With unique and sometimes hilarious quotes, and images of famous personalities both locally and internationally.
The Kenyan signatory style of transportation with revamped artwork is slowly getting international recognition and attention. What is common amongst Kenyans is unique and surprising to foreigners.
Amidst the announcement of the visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the UK High Commission has taken a different approach to transport logistics. In a never seen before collaboration.
The UK high commission has pimped a fleet of its vans that will be used by the state official as a convoy for the Royal visit into masterpieces. The fleets of vans have drawn inspiration from the Kenyan matatus.
Partnering with iconic and renowned matatu graffiti artists, the UK high commission has gone for a new approach to their vehicles. Embracing the Nairobi culture that is seen on the matatus and giving diplomatic cars a whole new look.
Dennis Mwangi the founder and creative director of Matwana Matatu culture said that he was honored to be partnering with the UK High Commission to make a world of art on their vehicles and showcase a blend of cultural exchange and artistic expression.
The van’s designs include artistic, digital printouts, custom UK airbrush flags, vinyl decals, and a hint of both Kenyan and British culture. The cars done so far took a week and more are expected to be revamped.
This marks an opportunity of a lifetime for the matatu graffiti artist involved. In Nairobi, the matatu graffiti artists are not celebrated as much. However, they have taken part in creating a unique culture in Nairobi.
