Kenyan artist Jepkemboi, popularly known as Minicheps on social media, has gained attention for her creative miniature images that transform her into a tiny human being engaging in unusual activities.
Minicheps says her social media name was inspired by the distinctive way she manipulates photographs to create miniature scenes that give her work a visionary and captivating appeal.
The artist, who is a stay-at-home mother and a Standard Eight dropout, says art remains her top priority alongside taking care of her children.
According to Jepkemboi, her journey into miniature photography was encouraged by her partner, who is an animator. He noticed her passion for photography and challenged her to begin creating miniature images of herself.
She said the approach helped her develop a unique identity and distinguish herself from other artists.
“My work is unique, authentic and personal. It means ‘this is Chep’,” Jepkemboi said.
While her work involves photography and image manipulation, Minicheps is protective of the techniques and software she uses to produce her concepts.
“That is my secret. I cannot share please,” she said, expressing concern that revealing her process could encourage copycats and weaken the uniqueness of her art.
Jepkemboi explained that producing each image involves considerable planning before the final photograph is created.
She said she and her partner discuss different experiences and ideas before going out to search for affordable objects and materials that can be incorporated into the day’s creative work.
“Before the final product comes out, my partner and I sit down and discuss various experiences we have had, as well as ideas. Afterwards, we go out to look for affordable objects and items that can be used for the day’s work,” she explained.
Minicheps began sharing her creative work on social media in 2019. Since then, her growing following has increased interest in her work and raised hopes that her online popularity could translate into greater professional opportunities.
For Minicheps, the miniature images have become more than edited photographs. They represent a personal artistic identity built around creativity, originality and everyday experiences.
The Kenyan artist continues to use social media to showcase her work as she seeks to expand her profile and establish herself professionally in the creative industry.
