ACTOR ALAN OYUGI ON CREATING AN ART PIECE FOR STATE HOUSE

Actor and fine artist Alan Oyugi opened up to Buzz Central about creating a unique art piece for State House, Nairobi.

Speaking with Cheptoek Boyo, Oyugi said he had created the magnificent piece years ago but could not sell it. “I did a piece in early 2021, it was a huge piece with Ankole horns, it stayed in the workshop because I couldn’t find someone to buy it. One day a lady walked in and said she would like to buy the piece.

She asked how much it was and I told her. When she came the next day, she said, ‘did I tell you where this piece is going?’ I said, ’no’ and she replied, ‘it’s going to State House.’ I didn’t expect that one piece that had stayed in the workshop for so long would be seen at the State House.”

Alan says the biggest challenge he faces as an artist is people who don’t like to pay, “Before I make something I have to be inspired, then I draw the concept and create the actual piece. It’s a long process but someone wants you to do it for free. I’m sorry but I don’t do things for free. In your house you have sofas, TV and things you have bought so if you think my work is worth being on your wall you have to pay for it. For me this is my bread and butter, just respect it.”