Makonde Art: The Legacy of George Lilanga (1934-2005)

By the border of Mozambique and Tanzania, in the village of Kikwetu, George Di Nyama Lilanga (1934-2005) was an artist from the Makonde tribe. The Makonde tribe is well known for their sculptural traditions as well as performance through dance.

Lilanga, like many members of his tribe, had a deep initiation with sculpting, first on cassava routs and then progressing to African Blackwood. Lilanga’s work features his Makonde heritage, showcasing mythical figures and characters that reflect contemporary African culture.

“Art is natural to us Makonde people; it is an important work and a source of income. I have personally achieved many things in life through this work”