Kenyan Artists to Showcase Contemporary Art in London Exhibition

Kenyan artists Brian Kimani and Mark Maganga will present a joint exhibition in London from 2 to 16 July 2026, exploring identity, memory and the experience of the diaspora through contemporary art.

Titled Synonymous Subjects, the exhibition will be held at Jack Daw Wine Bar on Kingsland Road. It brings together two emerging figures in Kenya's contemporary art scene whose distinct styles offer different perspectives on identity and human connection.

Kimani's paintings draw on the energy of urban communities, using bold compositions to portray shared experiences and everyday life. Maganga's work takes a more reflective approach, combining symbolism with observation to examine belonging, personal memory and identity. Together, their work presents both collective and individual perspectives on Kenyan identity.

The exhibition is curated by OkelloOregeArt, a London-based platform founded by Kezhia Orege. The organisation aims to promote Kenyan artists internationally while strengthening cultural links with the Kenyan diaspora. 

Organisers say the exhibition is intended to encourage dialogue between Kenyans living at home and abroad. The exhibition will also feature organic Kenyan coffee and freshly roasted macadamia nuts provided by Njerũ Njoka of Cũcũ Studios. 

The intergenerational collective focuses on indigenous land stewardship, food sovereignty and economic justice. The food and drink offering reflects the exhibition's emphasis on connecting art with cultural traditions and community values.

Jack Daw Wine Bar is owned by Kwame Otiende, a Kenyan-born entrepreneur who was recently elected as a Green Party councillor for London Fields in Hackney. His involvement reflects the growing contribution of Kenyans to London's cultural and civic life.

Part of the proceeds from artwork sales will support projects in Kenya that promote land care, food sovereignty and economic justice. Organisers say the initiative is intended to ensure the exhibition benefits the communities that inspire the artists' work.

The official preview will take place on 2 July from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm, marking the opening of the two-week exhibition. The event will bring together artists, curators, entrepreneurs and community leaders to celebrate Kenyan creativity and strengthen cultural connections across borders.