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Artists and Designers
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Haji Chilonga
Hailing from a family of blacksmiths and potters from South East Tanzania, visual expression and the application of human creativity are talents that run through Haji Chilonga’s family. Chilonga himself found his signature in abstract work. Chilonga further developed his skills by taking part in many local and international fine art workshops and was admitted twice to the Salzburg International Summer Academy of Fine Arts in 2007 and 2014 in Austria. Some of his works have been permanently displayed at Tanzania State House since 2004. He has joined exhibitions on the continents of Africa, Europe and North America and is one of the most celebrated contemporary artists of East Africa.
Chilonga has had his work exhibited in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, South Africa, Mauritius, Switzerland, Germany, the United Kingdom, Austria, Sweden, the U.S. and Canada. His artwork was chosen to display in President Kikwete’s Presidential home and is collected by I&M Bank in Nairobi and CRDB Bank in Dar es Salaam.
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Salum Kambi
Kambi is predominantly an abstract artist working in oil and acrylic on canvas or paper. Kambi says: “I bring out a totally different approach to canvas oil and acrylic painting. My technique is to use either a palate knife or a fine brush, and sometimes both. I love to paint women as I strongly feel that women in Africa sacrifice a lot for their families. They combine strength and perseverance, and lift their families out of hardship through their never-ending commitments.”
He has participated in exhibitions in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and in 2004 he was the first Tanzanian artist to be selected for the African Art Festival in Rome, Italy. The same year one of his pieces was chosen for the new reception building of the State House, Dar es Salaam.
Since then, his has had six solo exhibitions in Dar es Salaam and his works have been shown and collected in several countries Finland, Sweden, Germany, Netherlands, and Italy). In 2007 one of his works was chosen for the home of Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete. Salum Kambi made his American solo debut at U*Space Gallery in 2008.
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Peter Ray Mwasha
Through abstract techniques and vibrant color choices, Peter Ray Mwasha tells the story of African culture of the Maasai tribe, in Northern Tanzania.
Peter’s work work has been in the Biannual exhibition Dar es Saalam a number times, along with regional shows along the coast. In 2015 Peter was celebrated in New York along with other African artists at the African Rainforest Conservancy’s 24th Annual Artists for Africa Benefit.
Based on based on traditional Maasai culture, music and stories,Peter’s art has helped him to discover his own Maasai identity. He has found through his art that “Art is about communication. My art speaks to me every day, but it also speaks to the world about Africa.”
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Riziki Kateya
Riziki Kateya hails from the Ngaramatoni Arusha region and studied art at the Bagamoyo School of Arts. During her studies botanist Colin Watkins came to the school with the task of granting one student a scholarship to study in London and Riziki was chosen. Riziki has held exhibitions in London, at Kew Gardens and the National History Museum. She has also had an exhibition at the Mawaza Gallery in Dar es Salaam.
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Makao Collective
Makao Collective is a design studio that sources dependable handcrafted décor and furniture while being mindful of our global impact. They collaborate closely with local craftspeople to successfully pick desired goods, allowing for an economic boost within these circles. Makao strives for global sustainability, working to ensure they tread lightly on the environment while providing beautiful, regional, bespoke designs.
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Martin Anin Shoo
Martin Anin Shoo is a talented artist and furniture maker renowned for his exquisite creations crafted from recycled dhow woods. Born in Tanzania, Martin discovered his passion for woodworking and furniture art in the early months of 2015 under the mentorship of Sanaa Tamu, an esteemed collective of artists promoting sustainable and innovative artistic practices. In order to showcase his unique creations to a wider audience, Martin participated in various exhibitions, including the esteemed Kill Fair.
Driven by a desire to further expand his artistic horizons and establish his own creative identity, Martin established his own company called Iwona Eco Furniture's in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Under this new venture, Martin continues to create breathtaking pieces of furniture that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly.
Martin's creations can be found adorning homes, offices, and public spaces, both locally and internationally, as his influence continues to grow. Martin's passion for creating stunning furniture art from recycled dhow woods, his dedication to sustainable design, and his unwavering commitment to craftsmanship make him a truly remarkable artist and an inspiration to aspiring artisans worldwide.