A Sculpture of Warmth and Nostalgia

Perched gracefully within the grounds of Tafaria Castle & Center for the Arts is a sculpture that speaks directly to the soul. Aptly titled Grandma, this masterpiece by Wanjiku Nderitu captures more than just the essence of a Kenyan Christmas, it immortalizes the warmth, joy, and love that grandmothers embody, standing as a timeless invitation to a heartfelt hug.

The Kenyan Christmas Tradition

For many Kenyans, Christmas is not just a holiday; it is a pilgrimage back to the countryside, to the embrace of family and tradition. At the heart of this journey is grandma, the matriarch waiting with open arms and a kind heart. Her hugs are legendary, her gifting generous, and the goat roast she lovingly prepares becomes the centerpiece of festive feasts. These moments are not just rituals but treasured memories that define the season for generations.

Wanjiku Nderitu’s sculpture captures this experience in its purest form. Grandma was originally installed during Christmas 2022 as a celebration of this unique Kenyan tradition. Its purpose was to remind visitors of the joy of returning to the countryside, reconnecting with roots, and basking in the glow of grandma’s care and affection.

From Seasonal to Timeless

What began as a seasonal installation quickly evolved into something more profound. Visitors were drawn not just to the artistry of the sculpture but to the deep emotional resonance it evoked. Grandma became a symbol of love, care, and nostalgia that transcended Christmas.

Now standing as a permanent fixture at Tafaria Castle, Grandma invites everyone to ask themselves a poignant question: When were you last hugged?

A Sculptural Embrace

In this masterpiece, Wanjiku channels the universal comfort of a grandmother’s hug. The sculpture exudes warmth, from the welcoming posture of grandma’s open arm to the details that evoke her love of giving. She holds her pot of goodies, a nod to her endless generosity, and the goat, symbolic of the feasts and laughter she inspires during every gathering.

The piece serves as more than an artwork; it is an emotional experience. It calls out to everyone who has ever missed their grandma’s embrace or yearned for the sense of belonging and care that only she can provide.

Grandma’s Legacy at Tafaria

By giving Grandma a permanent place at Tafaria Castle & Center for the Arts, Wanjiku Nderitu ensures that this emblem of love and tradition is always within reach. Visitors from all walks of life are drawn to the sculpture not just to admire its artistry but to reflect on their own connections to family and heritage.

Whether you are celebrating Christmas or simply seeking solace, Grandma is here as a reminder that some things are eternal, like the warmth of a hug, the joy of togetherness, and the comfort of home.

A Call to Connection

In a world where life often pulls us in a thousand directions, Grandma stands as a gentle call to pause, reflect, and reconnect. It invites you to remember the people and moments that truly matter. And most importantly, it reminds you of the healing power of a simple hug.

So, when were you last hugged? Come meet Grandma at Tafaria Castle, and let her embrace remind you that love, in its purest form, is always waiting.