"The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera." - Dorothea Lange

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

the okecha boys


If you've ever been to one of the CTT fundraisers, you've no doubt been captivated by the amazing artwork of one of the Okecha boys. There are five brothers, four of whom always actively engage in the art making process when the team is at the orphanage. All five of the boys are talented and never fail to blow team members away with their artistic and musical gifts. This trip is no exception.

Mande (not pictured) is the oldest. Then there is Willy, who will turn 18 in February. Brian is 16, Oscar is 13 and Enock is 11.

The boys' mother, who passed away some years ago, liked to sketch. Willy told me she was not very talented, but that she derived much pleasure from it. Brian said he remembers a drawing she made of a family sitting together. Their paternal uncle, on the other hand, was a very good painter. Willy and Brian both recall a large canvas (made by the uncle) of a zebra that used to hang in their home. The boys both told me the painting always inspired them when they were young.

These guys are not only talented; they are extremely gentle and kind. They are good students, strong leaders among their peers, and they are kind and humble souls. The Okeche brothers always help make our visits to SMK an even more inspired and enjoyable experience.

(Photo: from left to right are Oscar, Willy, Enock and Brian)

1 comment:

stacie said...

Thank you for sharing this! We have a painting by Mande and one by Willy! I look forward to acquiring the younger okecha boys' work in the coming years!