Obel

Obel is a performance artist from Nairobi, Kenya.

Obel, who holds a degree in Theatre Arts and Film Technology, works with performance, writing, and storytelling, using the human body as a central artistic medium. Water is another recurring source of inspiration. Obel reflects on how dependent humans are on water, yet how poorly protected it is, especially in Kenya. Obel’s art is often very personal, and they use their experience as an LGBTQI+ person as a foundation for their work.

In 2023, Obel was nominated for Best Male Solo Performance at the Kenya Theatre Awards for their work Kundinyota, which explores the politics of the human body, spirituality, and healing.

In early December 2025, Obel arrived in Östersund, Sweden, where they continue working, focused on artistic creation, building networks, and collaborating with local artists. Obel is the fourth ICORN resident in Östersund.