From the streets to fame: How Peter Caesar found a future in pencil art

Peter Caesar sits among a pile of pencils scattered around his usual spot on Harambee Avenue, where he sketches anything from people to nature. Among the tools of his trade are an assortment of coloured pencils he uses to bring his art to life—capturing emotions, buildings, and moments in time.

One of his drawings shows a young girl shedding tears, another features a mother cradling her baby. When the Eastleigh Voice caught up with him for an interview, the 18-year-old shared that he’s been passionate about drawing for over eight years and is nowhere near giving it up.

"I began drawing when I was young. Initially, I thought I could drop it at some point, but here I am using it to earn a living almost eight years later," says Peter.

Most of Peter Caesar's clients want to be sketched and photos framed. (Photo: Barack Oduor)

Peter's greatest talent lies in his ability to capture a person’s likeness within minutes, with his sketches bearing an uncanny resemblance to the subject.

Most of his clients come to him for portraits, eager to have their sketches framed and turned into wall hangings.

"Pencil drawings are authentic. It's a form of art that depicts talent but also shows how an artist has keen eyes on mastering details within a short period because I do these drawings as my subjects stand to wait in the street," he says. 

Before art became his lifeline, Peter endured a difficult life on the streets. Now, he shares a home with a friend in Nairobi's Lunga Lunga informal settlement, finding stability through his passion for drawing.

"I have been in the streets trying to fend for myself when I turned into art because I am a school dropout. I currently live with a friend who has agreed to house me," he narrates.

He disclosed that sometimes prices vary depending on the size and number of faces in a picture. He charges between Sh100 and Sh500 for his small-sized sketches. 

Peter Caesar can sketch a human’s face within minutes. (Photo: Barack Oduor)

An A3 size for one person costs Sh3,500, the same for two people costs Sh6,000, and one for three costs Sh8,500.

"For A2 size, I charge Sh7,500 for one person, Sh9,500 for two people, and Sh12,000 for three people," he noted, adding that the price includes framing and free delivery within Nairobi CBD.

Peter’s favourite subjects are women and emotions. He explains that his time on the streets showed him how harsh life can be, especially for children and women, often leaving them in tears. His art reflects the struggles and resilience he’s witnessed.

"I love drawing children and women. I meet destitute families with nowhere to turn to for help except their tears. My drawing about them helps me especially absorb their predicament," says Peter.

Peter has since transformed his passion into a full-time job. Unable to attend college, he decided to focus all his energy on his art, making it both his livelihood and his escape.

"This talent pays all my bills; I have never been employed," he said.

The time he spends on an artwork can also vary considerably based on the complexity of the details in the picture.

Peter Caesar, a street pencil artist along Harambee Avenue also harbours a passion for music. (Photo: Barack Oduor)

What's the difference between pencil art and paintings?

The key difference between pencil art and painting lies in their process and purpose. Pencil art is often more commission-based, with artists creating custom pieces for clients, such as portraits or detailed sketches. Paintings, on the other hand, are typically seen as more expressive or conceptual, with artists often creating for exhibitions or personal exploration rather than specific client requests.

"In painting, the artist can draw from imagination or inspiration and then showcase at exhibitions for sale," he explains. 

Peter also has a passion for music and yearns for scholarships to pursue arts and music from well-wishers. "You know I also harbour a strong interest in composing and singing songs. Today if someone can sponsor my dream of joining an arts and music school, then I can be the happiest person alive," he notes