There are moments in Nairobi that catch you off guard, like a chance art exhibition along the corridors of a shopping mall. Such was the case at the Rosslyn Riviera mall this past weekend. As a travel agency headquartered in this city, we often explore Nairobi and its offerings, both to our delight and to the benefit of our clients.
Our curiosity recently led us to one of Nairobi’s premier shopping complexes. From the outside, it looked like a normal Saturday at Rosslyn Riviera: the gentle murmur of traffic, visitors going in and out, and sometimes the sweet aroma of food wafting from restaurants on the property. Everything changed once we stepped in.
The whole space felt calm, as though it had been waiting for someone to slow down long enough to notice. Golden fairy lights overhead, the hum of music behind us, and in front of us, canvases that held fragments of Kenyan life. Each piece seemed to echo a familiar story: the rhythm of daily chores, the unspoken bond between people, the landscapes that hold our memories.
Our experience
It was striking how naturally this experience unfolded. Nairobi’s art scene, once only accessible in museums and special gallery exhibits, was now found in unexpected corners: in malls, cafes, community halls, and open-air pop-ups.
You don’t need to attend a major gallery opening to feel the pulse of Kenyan creativity. In our case, it was as simple as stumbling upon a display on a workday, only for us to walk away feeling a little more connected to the city.
A little pause for travelers
For our travelers, this is one of Nairobi’s most beautiful gifts. It’s woven into everyday spaces, making it easy to experience the city through both its attractions and its artistic expression.
Whether you choose to visit a gallery or walk into a shopping mall, there’s a chance you’ll encounter Kenya’s creativity. Here at Kendirita Tours, we believe travel should leave room for such gentle, meaningful pauses; the moments you simply happen on, and yet they stay with you.
How you can support Kenyan artists
The art pieces we’ve featured here today belong entirely to the artists showcasing their work at Rosslyn Riviera, but art exhibitions take place all over the city. If you are a traveler on an artistic quest, we can tailor-make your city tour to include curated art stops that match your interests.
And if you’d like to support the artists directly, here are a few ideas on how:
- Buy original art or prints: You don’t have to purchase a large canvas. Many artists offer smaller pieces, affordable prints, and bookmarks. These make meaningful souvenirs that directly support the creator’s livelihood.
- Ask before taking photos: Some artists are comfortable with photography, while others prefer their work not to be shared without permission. Asking shows respect for their craft.
- Visit local galleries and creative collectives: Examples include the Nairobi National Museum, Banana Hill Art Gallery, Karen Village, and exhibitions like the one currently running at Rosslyn Riviera (showing until 21st December, 2025).
At Kendirita Tours, we know that the heart of a journey lies in the stories you collect along the way. Nairobi holds many moments of beauty and quiet discoveries that connect you to the land and the people of Kenya. So, the next time you’re in the city, we hope you’ll take a moment to explore some of its artwork. And if you do, we’d be honoured to guide you.
Writer: Winnie Wekesa