Sheila Bayley (b. 1986, Kenyan) continues her exploration of human psychology and identity politics. By merging poetry, past experiences, and fiction; using acrylic and mixed media, on canvas and board – she reimagines a new world, scenes, or instead cities that capture and depict her subjects, who are genderless, in high places and sometimes delicate situations.

Characterized by a very distinctive palette and style, she draws her inspiration from her memory, mixed-race identity, nature, architecture, fashion, and cultural diversity. Using black figurative silhouettes, symbolism, and design elements, she develops abstract stories that represent the journey of her subjects towards self-awareness, self-acceptance, and maintenance of oneself. Experimenting with patterns and colours allows Sheila to create stories, where words and explanations are truly unnecessary.

Her main intention is for the viewers to easily see themselves, in her artistic expression, find a sense of belonging, rebirth, and renewal of the mind. Sheila lives and works in Nairobi.