George Lilanga (1934-2005) came from the high arid plateaus of the Mozambique-Tanzanian
border. Lilanga's art--animated by a keen sense of social critique and caricature--illustrates
the continuity of artistic vision among the Makonde and its renewal in the context of the
present day. In many ways his sculptures and paintings follow Makonde conventions: his playful
figures are best understood as heirs to the unruly spirits of Makonde cosmology. The vibrant
inventiveness of Lilanga's work also testifies to the profound revolution that marked the birth
of individualization and personal talent in Africa. This lavishly illustrated volume is the
only monograph available on George Lilanga. It features over 100 works reproduced in full-color
plates as well as an in-depth interview with the late African artist.
