(Kenyan, b.1943)

Kivoi is a self-taught artist who began his career at Aberdare National Park, where he met journalist Peter Beard. Between 1966 and 1975, Kivoi was conscripted to assist Beard in writing Tales of Kamante, sketching and painting animals along the margins of the manuscript. Impressed by his talent, Beard opened an art department at Hog Ranch, where he continued to mentor Kivoi.

Kivoi works primarily in oil paints, drawing inspiration from both his imagination and his deep connection to nature. His time at Aberdare National Park has strongly influenced his work, with nature and wildlife serving as central motifs in speaking about the importance of conservation and celebrating Africa's rich wildlife heritage.

(Kenyan, b. 1945)

Also known as Mzee Mwangi, he began his artistic education at Kihiga Primary School. He later attended an Asian college for bookkeeping but found the field unfulfilling. In 1961, he moved to Nairobi to study fine art, where he developed a passion for still-life drawing. After graduation, Mwangi declined offers from newspapers to draw cartoons and instead worked as a carpenter. His carpentry skills caught the attention of Peter Beard, who hired him as a tent repairman.

Mwangi’s artwork primarily focuses on wildlife and nature, often created through intricate dotting techniques. He describes his work as "imagination art," born from his dreams and visions. 

(Kenyan, b. 1947)

Gabriel began his creative journey as a musician in 1959, playing guitar for 30 years. During his youth, Gabriel recorded with local artists, expanding his lyrics in Swahili, Kikuyu, and English, while performing in clubs and various venues, before starting his professional recording career in 1968. Though his music was rooted in local dialects, Gabriel drew inspiration from artists like Jim Reeves, Charlie Pride, and The Beatles. He was eventually hired by Peter Beard as an entertainer. It was during this time that Gabriel was introduced to painting.

(Kenyan, b. 1976)

Solomon moved to Nairobi in 1998 after completing high school. A year later, his aunt, who worked for Peter Beard, introduced him to the renowned artist. It was through Peter Beard that Solomon was introduced to drawing, marking the beginning of his creative journey. Solomon describes his time at Hog Ranch as his "college," where Beard laid the foundation for his artistic development.

Solomon’s work focuses on telling stories through wildlife, often painting small ecosystems, including rivers, frogs, and other creatures. He uses unconventional materials such as dead insects, leaf prints, and even his feet to explore the interconnectedness of nature. He believes that these "bonds make us one with all" and are sustained through love.

Kenyan, b. 1976

Gibson is the second-born son of Mzee Mwangi. Reflecting on his early years, Kuria recalls that his interest in the arts began as a child when he started experimenting with sculpting, stitching, and painting. This early exploration sparked a deep, innate passion for art. He first met Beard when his father enlisted his help at Hog Ranch.

Kuria likens his creative process to the fluidity of everyday mundane activities and views art as an intrinsic part of his existence, finding inspiration everywhere.

(Kenyan, b. 1978),

He was once Mzee Mwangi’s neighbour, recalls with great fondness observing him at work, an experience that ignited a creative passion within him. Marimbe describes his artistic style as "imagination art," drawing inspiration primarily from nature. As a strong advocate for environmental protection, his work explores themes of conservation and the natural environment. Marimbe worked at Hog Ranch From 1999 to 2011, an experience that further shaped his artistic journey and commitment to the conservation cause.

(Kenyan, b. 1981)

He began his artistic career as a graphic designer, creating signage for local businesses. 

Njenga’s artistic journey took a pivotal turn when his friends introduced him to Mzee Mwangi. In 2002, he was hired at Hog Ranch for his lettering skills,where Beard trained him in dotting techniques

For Njenga, art is deeply connected to nature. Through dotting, he crafts narratives that celebrate the beauty of the natural world. He believes art has the power to communicate and connect with others.