About

Art That Connects People, Stories and Spaces

At Rafiki Art, we believe that great art does more than decorate a wall. It creates connection, sparks conversation, and transforms a space into something personal and meaningful.

The name Rafiki, meaning "friend", reflects everything we stand for. Our mission is to create artwork that resonates with people, celebrates creativity, and brings warmth, character, and inspiration into homes, offices, and community spaces.

Our Story

Rafiki Art was founded from a passion for visual storytelling and the belief that everyone deserves access to beautiful, meaningful art. We draw inspiration from culture, nature, human connection, and the everyday moments that make life extraordinary.

Every piece is created with care and purpose, blending artistic expression with quality craftsmanship to deliver artwork that people are proud to display and share.

What Makes Rafiki Art Different?

Authentic Creativity
Every collection is thoughtfully designed to inspire emotion and connection, not simply fill a space.

Quality You Can Trust
We use premium materials and professional production standards to ensure every piece looks exceptional and lasts for years.

Art With Meaning
Our work is created to tell stories, celebrate culture, and help people express who they are through the spaces they live and work in.

Customer First
We're committed to providing an outstanding experience from first browse to final delivery. Your satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do.

Our Vision

We envision a world where art is accessible, inspiring, and deeply personal. Whether you're looking for a statement piece for your home, a thoughtful gift, or artwork that reflects your values and identity, Rafiki Art is here to help you find something truly special.

Why Customers Choose Rafiki Art

  • Unique and meaningful artwork
  • High-quality production and materials
  • Exceptional customer service
  • Art that inspires connection and conversation
  • A trusted partner in creating beautiful spaces

Bring Your Space to Life

Your surroundings should reflect your story, your passions, and your personality. At Rafiki Art, we're honoured to be part of that journey.

Discover artwork that inspires, connects, and transforms.

Rafiki Art. Art with meaning. Art with connection.

Hi I`m Les Camille — aka Rafiki Art. 

I trained in Fine Art at Midland TAFE in Perth Western Australia.
I left before finishing my degree, because Rafiki Art was already tugging at my sleeve like a mischievous spirit.
I opened a tiny shop selling original paintings, hand‑painted T‑shirts, and imported African art. That stall became my first headquarters as the self‑appointed Head Chaos Monkey of this colourful circus.
Later I travelled through Africa and set up a studio in Tanga, Tanzania — a base I kept for years while painting, travelling, and exhibiting across East Africa and Europe. I'd Travel to Brighton or Köln for exhibitions, then boomerang back to Tanga covered in paint and questionable decisions.

Highlights from those years: a solo show at The Pub With No Name in Queen's Park, Brighton; an invitation to exhibit at George Street Gallery participation in the Brighton Arts Festival .

 my painting Sax Man featured in the official Brighton Festival Magazine; and a solo exhibition at the 420 Hotel in Msasani, Dar Es Salaam, where I was commissioned to paint a mural for the bar and reception.

Eventually I returned to Australia and took a break from art. Life got sensible. Predictable. Safe.

Then a serious hand injury — followed by five surgeries over two years and months of hand therapy just to regain the use of my right hand — slapped everything into perspective. When you nearly lose the ability to paint, you realise how much of your soul is tied to it.

So when my hand finally healed, I came back swinging. I painted like a joyful lunatic, rebuilt Rafiki Art from the ground up, and ignored every sensible instinct I'd ever had.

My technique exploded — more colour, more movement, more honesty. And every artwork and canvas print on my site still begins as a real, physical painting or Drawing. No shortcuts. Just paint, sweat, and stubbornness.

I've also embraced tech, creating three digital Drawings  — including my favourite act of footy‑themed mischief: The Fremantle Dockers alter ego, The Bull Sharks. Bold, cheeky, and guaranteed to start a conversation at any backyard barbie.

I entered the Archibald Prize 2025 — Australia's most prestigious and fiercely contested portrait prize — with my painting Trying to Escape My Mind. It wasn't just an entry; it was a reckoning. That painting marked a turning point in how I work — rawer, more introspective, more willing to put the uncomfortable stuff on the canvas. Whether the judges loved it or not, painting it changed me.

Regards

Les Camille aka Rafiki Art, the ongoing Head Chaos Monkey,