The Ngalawa Project
2025
Diani, Kenya
In 2024, Pie was an Artist in Residence on Chale Island, Kenya, where she immersed herself in the lives of the local fishing community. She spent time learning about their traditions, challenges, and the vital role of the Ngalawa—a traditional East African outrigger canoe that has sustained generations of fishermen.
That immersive experience sparked a vision: to help preserve the Ngalawa not just as a cultural artefact, but as a living, working vessel with real-world impact. Thanks to the success of her residency exhibition, Pie was able to commission the construction of a new Ngalawa, handcrafted by local artisans using traditional techniques.
Punga Upepo
Today, that vision has become a reality. The newly built Ngalawa is now fully operational—the largest of its kind along the Kwale coast. It offers guided fishing trips, sunset cruises, and snorkelling excursions, blending cultural heritage with eco-tourism. The vessel doesn't just celebrate maritime tradition; it actively sustains it.
A dedicated crew, drawn from the local community, now operates the Ngalawa full-time, creating stable, sustainable employment. All profits from its activities are reinvested directly into the community, supporting key initiatives in Makongeni—including a pioneering project that empowers women through beekeeping and mangrove conservation.
In keeping with the boat’s cultural significance, Pie has hand-painted its expansive 30ft sail, transforming it into a floating artwork that tells the story of Kenya’s coastline and its people.
As the Ngalawa cuts through the water, it becomes a moving canvas—both a symbol of tradition and a beacon for the future.