Denis Elijah began sculpting at a very young age in his native
Kenya. He was greatly influenced by his grandfather, a rainmaker,
in the pursuit of his art. He found inspiration in nature and in
dreams and gained an appreciation for the medium of African
soapstone.
Three years ago, Denis was sponsored by the Kenyan government to
attend an international sculptors festival in Saskatchewan. Denis
was so enamoured of Canada that he decided to stay here. He began
providing educational programs to Canadian schools, introducing
students to sculpting techniques and Kenyan art. The focus of the
programs is on students finishing their own piece, giving them a
sense of accomplishment and appreciation for the work involved in
artistic endeavours.
Denis has remained in contact with his family in Kenya through
letters and phone calls, but is placing a priority on developing
his life and livelihood here in Canada. Denis plans to continue
sculpting and to open a shop and studio where he can work and
display his art and sell his own pieces along with other art and
goods he plans to import from Kenya.
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