Proof there's enough good female fine artists in TZ

By Caroline Uliwa

Artwork by Hedwiga Tairo from Arusha as
displayed at the Belgian Ambassador to
TZ residence inside the 'women in art
showcase' curated by Rangi Gallery
in DSM recently-Photo by 
Jerome Albou

The fine art scene in Tanzania has been dominated by male artists for decades but now there are sure signs the scales are shifting. As a recent exhibition ‘women in art showcase’ organized by the wife of the ambassador of Belgium to Tanzania Mrs Astrid Belliot; curated by Asteria Malinzi of Rangi Gallery. 

Highlighted a healthy presence of talented female fine artists in the country, for a while the likes of Poni Yengi, Mwandale Mwanyekwa, Safina Kimbokota, Veronique Laurent, Sharifa Juma & Rehema Chachage; were the only serious female contenders in this field now a new heftier batch is emerging. Thanks to efforts of experienced mentors and teaching centers like Nafasi Art Academy. 

Artwork by Thabisasu John-
photo by 
Jerome Albou

Within three weeks through a social media call over 50 artworks from female fine artists were submitted, with the majority coming from Dar es Salaam and others from other regions like Arusha, Zanzibar, Tanga & Mwanza. 

Artwork by Safina Kimbokota-photo by Jerome
Albou

In the end twenty seven artists made the cut for this exhibit that was launched on June 27^th late afternoon. At the ambassador of Belgium to Tanzania’s home, with the sea air cooling the guests the garden spotted new flowers. As all around were easels showcasing a myriad of paintings with photographs & sculptures accenting the exhibit.

“For me the fact that I’ve been in the industry for the last five years, it was interesting to spot a lot of new names. I met a lot of people I didn’t know in the field that’s what pleased me the most.”Asteria Malinzi the head curator for this exhibition shared her high note in organizing this exhibition.

Happy Robert artwork as displayed at the residency
of the Belgian Ambassador to TZ recently-
Photo by Jerome Albou

The question of, if there’s a significant number of female fine artists in the country, is now rhetorical. As walking around this showcase one could see diverse skilled presentations of artworks from Tanzanian females. Like the veteran Poni Yengi who has been in the scene on & off since the 90’s, at this exhibit she presented her signature style. Of creating canvas that revamps papier mâché with linen threads, highlighting small stick like figures that end up looking so dynamic in their resolute simplicity. 

Rising stars like Hedwiga Tairo showed out, her piece ‘grand feeling’ depicting a young woman donning heels. Has such good use of contrast despite working in a subdued color wheel, in it she delivers very mature texture. 

Participating artists of the 'women in art' showcase
pose with the Ambassador of Belgium to TZ
& his wife (first right) at their residence
in DSM recently

 “We are so grateful that today we could host so many women in the Tanzanian art world, we know that it’s not easy but with platforms like this it gives you a chance to showcase yourself...I want to give a shout out to all the men because without you it’s very difficult for us ladies to break mfumo dume (patriarchy).” Mrs A. Belliot in welcoming the artists and guests to her garden, urged female fine artists to come out in droves so they are recognized. Here she acknowledged the role of male fine artists who have mentored them to include Haji Chilonga, Evarist Chikawe & Lutengano Mwakisopile. Who were present at this exhibit & welcomed to showcase a few of their pieces.

Painting by Jennifer Msekwa from Arusha,
 as displayed at the launch of the
'women in art showcase' at the
Belgian Ambassador to TZ's residence in DSM-
Photo by Jerome Albou

Other artworks that stood out in quality include ‘Mother & Child’ by Reena Davis, she is the youngest artist in this exhibit-19yrs. Having learnt her craft from secondary school, her piece was conjured within a week! Aishi Mengi gave quality photographs for a first time exhibitor. And Safina Kimbokota as always outdid herself with scrap metal sculptures a fabric print that relayed sure skill. Happy Roberts’s ‘Love & Care’ was also another winner for me, from color composition, contrast to proportion the artwork is a classic.

Speaking with some of the participating artists like Jasmin Bakar who also displayed a striking artwork titled ‘Msusi’. “I was real glad to meet fellow female artists; it opened my eyes that we can reach those astonishing heights by ourselves.” 

Artworks by Poni Yengi-Photo by Jerome Albou

I heard these same sentiments of pride & realization from Poni Yengi and Reena Davis too. They as well gave gratitude to the male fine artists who’ve mentored them like Ras Thobia, Omary Bampango and Walter Lema. Currently one can still see these artworks at Rangi Gallery offices opposite CCBRT Hospital in Msasani, Dar es Salaam. Their price range is 2,500-70USD with most falling below 400USD. 

Be sure to visit this webpage Rangi Gallery as this gallery will officially launch its offices next month. 

 
n.b. This article was first published on the East African newspaper with this link https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/magazine/fine-artists-answer-call-as-women-elbow-for-space-3468132