Lemek Sompoika

Lemek Tompoika, a distinguished Maasai artist, is based in Nairobi, Kenya. His academic journey in the arts culminated with a graduation from The Creative Art College, Nairobi, in 2005, where he majored in Art and Drawing. Lemek was an integral part of the Kuona Trust Art Centre up until 2016, which played a significant role in his artistic development. His international acclaim is evidenced by his participation in esteemed events such as the Ostrale Biennial in Germany and the Biennial Poznan in Poland. Moreover, Lemek has showcased his work across various continents, with exhibitions and group shows in Kenya, South Africa, and Australia, alongside participating in competitions and workshops at various levels.

Lemek's artistic practice delves into the exploration of spaces and human behavior dynamics, reflecting on the nuances of truth, influence, and identity within cultures, societies, and individuals. His work, which often incorporates charcoal, pastel, graphite, and occasionally digital media, captures the essence of human experiences and the intersection of traditional and contemporary societal norms.

Noteworthy exhibitions of Lemek's work include "Our Kaftan" at Kesh Kesh Kesh restaurant in Nairobi, Kenya (2018), "In-between" at The Kobo Trust Gallery in Nairobi (2018), and "Young Guns" at Circle Art Gallery in Nairobi (2017). His piece "Error:X" was featured at the Ostrale Biennale for Contemporary Art in Dresden, Germany (2016), and "Fundamental" was displayed at the Mediations Biennale Poznan in Poland (2016), among others. These selected exhibitions underscore Lemek's dynamic range and his significant contributions to the contemporary art landscape.

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