Creating Locally, Impacting Globally

In this episode of the Latitudes Podcast, Refiloe Mpakanyane connects with Nairobi-based photographer Thandiwe Muriu. Thandiwe unpacks her knack for incorporating local wisdom into her art and letting it shine on the global art platforms. After walking us through the beginning of her artistic career (193 Gallery slid into her dm’s), the conversation gets into the depths and thoroughness of Thandiwe’s creative process; her hopes and ambitions for Kenya’s art scene; as well as the validation of having having her art aired by the UNESCO Art Collection.  

Thandiwe’s sunny and optimistic nature is on full display in this conversation and she ends the conversation with a touching message for her fellow artists.

Highlights Include:

• Thandiwe’s artwork being acquired by the UNESCO Art Collection
• Thandiwe’s desire to have her work fully produced in Kenya - without having to print elsewhere.
• The challenges of travelling and staying connected to the global art scene
• How 193 Gallery slid into Thandiwe’s DM’s.
• Designing prints and getting into textiles  

Referenced exhibitions & institutions:

• Maison Longchamp X Thandiwe Muriu (Memories of the Future)
• The UNESCO Collection 
• Strauss & Co’s collaboration with Art Auction East Africa
• 193 Gallery

Chapter 2 (Connecting the Stories from the Continent) spans episodes 4-6 of Season 2 of the Latitudes Podcast, and is a regionally focused exploration of the intersections between local art scenes across the continent. Featuring insights from curators, art advisors, museum directors, and gallerists; this chapter examines curatorial themes, market positioning and unique regional dynamics.

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The African perspective adds a lot of richness. It is a very important voice to have in global discussions. - Thandiwe Muriu

About the Latitudes Podcast

Hosted by dynamic broadcast journalist and penchant for the arts Refiloe Mpakanyane, The Latitudes Podcast, which is the only podcast dedicated to contemporary African art, is an immersive and engaging platform that builds a new layer of access to the contemporary visual arts from Africa.

Season two of the Latitudes Podcast offers a dynamic, in-depth exploration of the ‘art world’ in Africa through twelve curated episodes, structured across four interconnected themes. From artists and facilitators to curators, critics, and collectors, the series unpacks the industry’s inner workings, shedding light on creative journeys, market dynamics, art criticism, and the evolving role of patrons. This podcast serves as both a resource and a platform for critical discourse, bridging regional perspectives and shaping the future art from Africa and diaspora.

About Refiloe Mpakanyane

Refiloe Mpakanyane is a broadcast journalist, with a penchant for the arts. Known for her love and support of local African literature, art and artists, Mpakanyane has an Honours Degree from the Wits School of Journalism and majored in International Relations, Media Studies and English Literature for her undergrad. Her firm grounding in the critical, analytical and creative thinking of the humanities discipline has underpinned her passion for broadcasting, leading her to delve into working not only behind the scenes in radio and television production, but in front of the camera and hosting her own radio shows as well.

About Latitudes Online

Latitudes Online is the world's leading online marketplace for art from Africa. Discover and buy artworks from over 3,000 artists and enjoy editorial from leading voices on the continent. When you buy from Latitudes Online you have peace of mind that your artwork will be safely delivered to you in perfect condition. Click here to start your collecting journey.

About iTOO Artinsure

iTOO is a collective of industry leading experts across a range of special risk insurance offerings. Art and collectables are a fast growing asset class around the world. Representing years of value that could diminish in a matter of seconds, it’s critical to take the time to insure with an expert who understands the length and breadth of the industry. Damage, an increasing rise in cultural crime and forgery can translate to serious loss in terms of your appreciating works and collectables.

About Art School Africa

This year, Latitudes has joined forces with Art School Africa to co-curate this latest season of the podcast. A registered non-profit, Art School Africa supports artists across the continent. While Africa has a deep and complex artistic history, many artists still struggle to access global markets - Art School Africa works to bridge this gap by providing resources, mentorship, and career opportunities.

About Business and Arts South Africa (BASA)

BASA was founded in 1997 as a joint initiative between government and the private sector, as part of a strategy to secure greater involvement in the arts from businesses operating in South Africa. Established as a Section 21 company, BASA is constituted in terms of the Companies Act, and is registered as a public benefit organisation. Its delisting as a Schedule 3 entity has seen Business and Arts South Africa NPC register for VAT. BASA is accountable to its stakeholders – the government, BASA members and the creative sector.

03 Sep 2025