For Nickson Onserio, popularly known as McCoy, art has never been just about creating beautiful paintings. Instead, it has become a tool for building community, nurturing talent and changing how people experience creativity in Nakuru.

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‎The professional visual artist, who is the founder of Buni Gallery at Baraza Media Lab, has transformed what began as a personal passion into a growing creative hub that now attracts both artists and first-time art enthusiasts through exhibitions, workshops, and the increasingly popular Paint and Sip events.

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‎McCoy's artistic journey began when he was just 10 years old. He recalls spending hours sketching anything that caught his attention, a hobby that gradually became an inseparable part of his life.

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‎"Art started as something I enjoyed doing, but with time it became something I couldn't imagine living without," he says.

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‎After completing high school, he attended an art workshop at Komboni Polytechnic in Gilgil, an experience that strengthened his passion and encouraged him to pursue visual art professionally.

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‎Today, McCoy works across several mediums, including charcoal pencil, acrylic painting, murals, mixed media and wearable art. His work explores themes such as identity, mental health, African culture, resilience and personal growth.

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Nickson Onserio paints his client at the Hell's Gate Biking Festival.

Photo credit: Muthoni Wanjiku/Mtaa Wangu

‎Beyond painting, he is also a dance instructor and chess trainer, reflecting his belief that creativity can take many forms.

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‎His journey took another significant turn after joining Baraza Media Lab. He became part of the creative community and established Buni Gallery with a broader vision.

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‎"I wanted Buni Gallery to be more than just a room with paintings on the wall but a home for creative where artists could meet, collaborate, learn and grow together," he explains.

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‎Unlike many galleries, Buni Gallery allows emerging artists to exhibit their work without paying exhibition fees, giving many talented creatives an opportunity to showcase their work.

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‎However, running the gallery has not been without challenges. McCoy says many people admire art but still hesitate to invest in it, while limited funding often makes organising exhibitions and creative events difficult.

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‎Nevertheless, he has continued finding innovative ways to attract new audiences. Besides hosting exhibitions and workshops, Buni Gallery has introduced Paint and Sip sessions, which combine guided painting, music, refreshments and conversation in a relaxed setting

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Some of the art displayed at the Buni art gallery.

Photo credit: Muthoni Wanjiku/Mtaa Wangu

‎Participants receive all the necessary painting materials and are guided step by step, making the sessions accessible to everyone regardless of experience. More importantly, they leave with more than just a completed painting.

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‎"People gain confidence because they discover they can create something beautiful. Others simply find a moment to slow down and express themselves," he adds.

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‎Looking ahead, McCoy hopes to establish Buni Gallery as one of Kenya's leading creative spaces by hosting larger exhibitions, artist talks, cultural events and collaborations with creatives from across the country. Ultimately, his dream is to position Nakuru as a nationally recognised destination for art while helping artists build sustainable careers.

‎ "You don't need to know anything about art to enjoy it. Just come with an open mind. Buni Gallery is a place where everyone is welcome to discover creativity, connect with local artists and experience art in a relaxed environment." He noted

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Mccoy: How a 10-year-old's passion became Nakuru's thriving art hub

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Muthoni Wanjiku