Lilanga, Tanzania's best known artist was born in 1934 in the Makonde area, Tanzania. Like many Makonde children he learned to carve. Painting came later when he worked at the Nyerere Cultural Centre.
The big breakthrough for George came in 1978 when an exhibition in Washington DC featured 100 of his works. Since then his work has been highly sought after internationally, with continuous exhibitions in Europe, the USA, and Japan.
Lilanga's work had a big influence on the new pop generation, especially Keith Haring. He represents his people's culture through art swarming with figures and the rhythmic movement of Mapico dance.
Following his death in June 2005 the market for Lilanga's work has become even keener.
