Erico

Paweł Althamer, one of the most outstanding contemporary Polish artists, portrays Eric Shieni, a young Kenyan volunteer, finance student, and active member of the community associated with the Journey Through The Savannah Foundation, involved in educational and relief efforts for children. His life was tragically cut short in June 2024 during the brutally suppressed protests in Nairobi.

The sculpture was created as a result of the artist’s meeting with Eric Shieni in Kenya, where Althamer was struck by his distinctive features and strong, compelling presence. The bust functions as a material testament to the memory of the deceased and a symbol of the lost potential of a socially engaged young man. Althamer’s work is a tribute to the murdered Erico, his family and friends, and the entire community that has carried out educational and aid projects in Kenya since 2017 within the JTTS Foundation.