Beyond the Spotlight: How Kiwo Gregory Maole Shapes Stories Through Light
In this interview, Nairobi-based lighting designer Gregory Kiwo Maole opens up about his journey into the world of film lighting—a path that began with dreams of aviation and took a creative detour into visual storytelling. Gregory shares how a chance opportunity introduced him to the art and craft of lighting design, where he quickly discovered a passion for shaping the emotional tone of a scene through light.
He discusses the critical role that lighting plays in storytelling, explaining how the right lighting choices can guide the audience’s emotions, reveal character, emphasize mood, and underscore dramatic beats. For Gregory, lighting isn’t just about visibility—it’s about intention. He emphasizes that to design effectively, you need to deeply understand the script and grasp what the writer is trying to convey. Whether it’s a moment of tension, intimacy, or revelation, lighting helps translate the writer’s vision into a visual language that speaks directly to the viewer.
Gregory also highlights the importance of being a strong Gaffer. While he believes that anyone can learn the technical aspects of lighting, it’s the leadership, adaptability, and creative instinct of a good Gaffer that truly elevate a production. A skilled Gaffer doesn’t just light a scene—they support the story.
https://www.kiwomaole.com/projects/