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.