Naomi Munuo
Naomi is a British figurative painter whose work celebrates introspection and quiet rituals of every day life. Her richly layered paintings are known for their vibrant colour, intricate pattern and powerful sense of narrative, often portraying strong figures within intimate spaces. She studied fashion design at Central Saint Martins, graduating in 1992. Although she initially planned a career in fashion, the arrival of her first child led her to follow a different creative path and pursue painting instead. After working in art education and leading a creative arts faculty while raising her three daughters, she established herself as a full-time artist. Her work has since been exhibited across the UK, including at the RA summer exhibition, Benton End, Garden Museum, Liberty London and most recently Byard Art. Her work has featured in publications including ROSA Magazine and Elle Decor Italia.
Artist Statement
I enjoy a narrative, and look for the story within a moment of stillness, reflection or human interaction. I often set these moments within richly decorated interiors filled with lush textiles, using myself or a family member as a model. More recently my search for a story is taking me outdoors into gardens, most recently the garden at Benton End where I had a six week residency in 2025 and followed the preparations for the walled garden party fundraiser. That became its own story, the planning, the gardeners, the volunteers, the organisers and then the day of the party itself. That’s the kind of thing I love to capture, a moment in time, full of purpose, slightly chaotic, very human. The residency culminated in an exhibition at Benton End, followed by another at the Garden Museum, naturally both were very much inspired by the people and garden at Benton End, which has taken my work in a new direction.
Work
Press
- Exhibition/Pathways - Garden Museum