KENYAN ARTS ICON PATRICK MUKABI PASSES AWAY AFTER ILLUSTRIOUS 30-YEAR CAREER

The Kenyan creative community is mourning the loss of one of its most influential figures, Patrick Mukabi, popularly known as Panye, who has passed away. A celebrated visual artist with over three decades of experience, Mukabi was a national treasure whose works have been exhibited around the globe.

Beyond his prolific output, Mukabi’s true joy came from mentoring young artists in his studio. A space that became a sanctuary for a generation of Kenyan painters.

Mukabi’s impact was personal to those he nurtured. Artist Joan Otieno recalled his early influence, “I have lost a special person. When I came to Nairobi from the coastal town in 2016, it’s at his studio that I found refuge. My first encounter with recycled materials as art was due to the wrappers from loaves of bread that he bought for us from Nakumatt. He used to tell us to practice giving. I could earn a clean 1000 shillings by doing his hair. I’ve got so much to say about Patrick Mukabi. Rest in peace.”

Adam Futuristic, CEO of Mukuru Youth Performing Arts, described Mukabi as an irreplaceable pillar, “The world has lost one of the greatest minds of the creative industry. A friend, a brother, a teacher, and a father to every fine artist in Kenya and around the globe. Condolences to the family and friends. Allah will comfort his soul. Innah lillah waina ilahyi rajiu’n. Rest easy, brother Panye. Patrick Mukabi.”

Fellow artist Philemon Otwane shared how Mukabi’s generosity launched his career, “I’m saddened to receive the shocking news of the passing of Kenya’s biggest art maestro. In 2019, he welcomed me to the Dust Depo Studio in Nairobi, gave me a clean chair and a set of painting materials, and nurtured me to stick on the art lane. He then introduced me to the Affordable Art Show at the Nairobi National Museum, where I learned a lot about art. The Kenya art fraternity will miss you dearly, but in our hearts you will remain forever, Panye!”

Mukabi’s work transcended aesthetics; he used art as a tool for collective healing. He notably memorialised the 1998 bombing of the US Embassy in Nairobi, converting the space between KenCom and Uchumi House into a theatre of mourning and recovery. Among his most celebrated series is Market Women, which immortalised the vibrancy and resilience of Nairobi’s social life.

Mukabi is survived by his family, his extended artistic family, and a legion of students who will carry his legacy forward. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family.