arrow_back Back to all stories
museum exhibitions calendar_today Thursday, August 7, 2025

Marius Frank paints soul of the lake in first solo show

Marius Frank Ajuma opened his first solo exhibition, titled "Janam," at the National Museums of Kenya in Nairobi on August 4, 2025. The show explores life around Lake Victoria, where the artist grew up, featuring vibrant acrylic paintings that depict fishermen, beaches, and the cultural identity of the lake's communities. Ajuma's path to this milestone included training at Mwangaza Art School, a degree in microprocessor technology, a stint in music, and mentorship under artist Patrick Mukabi.

The exhibition matters because it marks the realization of a young Kenyan artist's dream and brings visibility to regional narratives often overlooked by the global art world. By centering the stories and resilience of people living on Lake Victoria, Ajuma contributes to a growing movement of African artists who draw from local heritage and lived experience, challenging stereotypes and enriching contemporary art discourse.