Finding the Balance: Daniel Muraba on Refusing to Be Boxed Into a Single Career Path

I believe that art is a collaboration between God and man. It is deeply spiritual, comforting the disturbed and disturbing the comforted.

In his early childhood, while other kids were playing outside, Daniel Muraba discovered a love that kept him indoors- drawing. He practised this one activity that has given his heart little kicks of joy over the years and in 2016, made up his mind to start doing it professionally.

A BCOM graduate gainfully employed as an accountant, Daniel still draws part-time. Among other privately collected commissions, he has done a portrait for Equity bank's Dr James Mwangi. He talks to Lesalon Kasaine about his passion and how he juggles his two jobs.

Who is Daniel Muraba?

Muraba is a spiritual artist who captures and addresses social and political topics through fine art portraiture in the crypto-realist style. He is also an accountant working with Halliday Finch Limited.

How do you manage to strike a balance between your two jobs?

I've always believed that if I put my mind to anything, I can accomplish it. When I am not performing my official duties, I dedicate my time to growing my art portfolio. I wake up every morning at 5 am to do art, and then, from 9 am to 5 pm, I do my accounting work- with a lot of prayers and self-motivation in-between.

Do you ever feel like quitting one of the jobs to fully concentrate on the other?

At the moment, no. My art gets inspired by my other life pursuits such as accounting and volunteering for various projects that are in line with my passion.

Which artist has influenced your work and why?

I have been influenced by a variety of local artists most notably Patrick Kinuthia, Kennedy Kinuthia, and Jimmy Curtis IV. Internationally I have drawn influence from Arinze Stanley. I am fascinated by the simplicity with which these artists execute complex art styles to relay social-political messages. In short, I like art that's deep.

Does drawing pay?

Ha-ha, that's a waggish one.

Yes, though like any business there are good days and bad days. Anyway, while working on a piece, I steer clear of thoughts about money, unless of course, I am drawing money. I draw because it is my passion. But once I'm finished someone will always be willing to pay for it.

What notable works have you sold so far?

There's Dr James Mwangi of Equity Bank and Eng. Joshua Ichang' i—an engineer at Athi Water. Most of my artworks are sold via art galleries - it is a bit difficult to trace who the private collectors are.

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