Sherie Margaret Ngigi, visual artist and photographer based in Kenya

I’m Sherie Margaret Ngigi (b. 1996), a visual artist, photographer, and filmmaker living and working in Kenya. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Film Production and Directing from the United States International University of Africa.

I’ve been practicing photography since 2015, and along the way, I’ve had the honor of receiving awards like the 2022 East African Photography Awards and being nominated as the 2020 Photo London Emerging Photographer of the Year.

My work has been exhibited internationally at art fairs such as Photo Basel and Photo London with AKKA Project, as well as in solo exhibitions—Murky Waters (2020) in London and Forever Is Not Ours (2023) at One Off Contemporary Art Gallery.

I consider my work to be my personal diary, a visual record of my growth as I move through the world. Through photography and film, I explore the complexities of growing up, and the often unspoken transitions into adulthood and womanhood.

My earlier projects, like Mke Mwema, reflect on themes such as marriage, while Murky Waters investigates the position of women in society. At the heart of everything I create is a desire to document the emotional, spiritual, and social layers of becoming, capturing not just moments, but the inner tides that shape who we are.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

I’m a fun, curious and introspective person who’s always seeking meaning in life’s quiet moments. A fun (more embarrassing) fact about me: I was raised in a coastal city but just learnt how to swim as an adult.

How did you first get into photography?

I got into photography in 2015, during my first year in university where I was doing my diploma in Fine Art. I was intrigued by the camera for a couple of reasons, one was because photoshoots were cool and gained you a lot of followers on instagram.

I took a photography short course during our first long break mainly because I didn't want to go back home (I was schooling in a different city away from home). Eventually I realized I wanted to use the camera as another way for me to make art.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche?

I am a fine art portrait photographer, it's the main reason I ever picked up the camera - to create art.

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography?

My photography is a visual diary where I process my own experiences of womanhood and life in general. I’m drawn to how personal narratives can hold collective meaning. My work is both a form of witnessing and a way of reaching out, creating space for others to feel seen, held, or simply reminded of our shared humanity.

What is the one achievement or moment in your photography career that you're most proud of?

Hosting my very first solo show in Kenya in 2023 was a very special moment.

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenges have mostly been internal, the self doubts, imposter syndrome and other necessary journeys you have to take in your early years before getting your footing in the industry. What has helped me is having good friends to hold my hands, guide and reassure me through and through.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

It would definitely be Zenele Muholi. They embody everything a great artist should embody.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

It's wonderful seeing more platforms that are built with the aim of propelling the African photography scene.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their photography journey, what would it be?