I see used spark plugs, shock absorbers, food cans, and metal pipes as rusty recyclables; Kioko Mwitiki sees the makings of a new animal sculpture! This famous artist from Kenya breathes life into recycled metal in a most creative way. His unique animal designs have been exhibited across East Africa and Europe, and now he’s returned to the San Diego Zoo and will be here through mid-October!
Kioko discovered his artistic talent while apprenticing as a welder in a milk-can factory. During breaks, he would take metal scraps and weld them together in interesting shapes for amusement. But soon, customers were buying his “art,” and one of them asked Kioko to fashion a small elephant sculpture. Today, Kioko runs an art studio in Kenya, teaching groups of young men his craft as a way to help them stay out of trouble and lead productive lives.
Inspired by the wildlife he observed growing up in Kajiado, a town near the outskirts of Nairobi, Kioko makes a variety of African animals large, small, and in-between. You can see much of his artwork displayed throughout Zoo grounds: from the life-size (yes!) giraffe and camel that proudly stand on the Zoo’s front plaza to a rhino and hyena hanging out at our Treetops complex. Whimsical porcupines, frogs, warthogs, and even dung beetles rolling a dung ball have found temporary homes along the paths of Elephant Odyssey.
Kioko says creating a new sculpture is like putting together a jigsaw puzzle, but one where you’re not sure where all the pieces are to be found. He prowls scrap metal yards for his materials and ideas: those car doors would make great elephant ears; that exhaust pipe is just what a scorpion needs. It may take one or two years before all the pieces are in place!
While here at the Zoo, Kioko enjoys observing some animals not native to Africa, including our orangutans and crowned pigeons, and chatting with Zoo guests about his art. Come see for yourself the clever ways this talented artist turns trash to treasure!
Debbie Andreen is an associate editor for the San Diego Zoo.
Meet Kioko at the ZooStore gift shop at the Zoo’s exitTuesdays through Sundays. For a limited time only, we are offering 20% off his sculptures. Some of his pieces are also available through our online store, Shopzoo.com.
Hi Kioko,
I hope you are enjoying your stay with us here at the zoo. Your sculptures are amazing and beautiful! Your vision is a gift. Having the ability to see such potential in those things discarded by others and the skill and talent to put it all together is wonderful. Sharing this knowledge to help others help themselves–I am sure that they feel grateful and fortunate. Your art touches my soul and your whimsy makes me smile. Good fortune to you and your students in future endeavors. We were so lucky to have you here at the zoo this summer.
Blessed Be With Love, judy j
my, my,my. how interesting! his work is beautiful; he is a very talented man. I hope he makes alot of money making beautiful metal art. it is funny how he happened into this profession. most successful people all seem to have an interesting back-ground or story to tell as to how they got to where they are now in life! hobbies sometimes turn into life’s work……………………………….I wish that I had a talent!
Love the recycled art. We also make recycled art utilizing slate for oil candles, slate fountains and other products.
I forgot to mention that I started by painting wildlife on recycled slate.
Kioko,
Your work looks stunning in Louisa’s garden. Everybody that passes by comments raves about it. Best wishes with the final showings and Open House this Saturday (October 10th), and have a great trip back to Kenya. – Susan
Moderator’s note: Be sure to come by the San Diego Zoo to see more of Kioko’s work on display.