Chilonga Haji

Haji Mussa Chilonga, born in 1969 in Mtwara, Tanzania, is a multifaceted artist known for his fine art, abstract works, and sculptures. Since embarking on his artistic career in 1992, Chilonga has established himself as a prominent figure in the art world. Currently residing in Dar es Salaam, he has developed his craft through rigorous training both locally in 1999 and internationally at the Salzburg International Summer Academy in Austria in 2007 and 2014.

Chilonga's individual artistic journey is highlighted through his solo exhibitions, with notable showcases at the Banana Hill Art Gallery in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2018, 2012, and 2010, and the Warm Heart Art Gallery in Arusha, Tanzania, in 2011 and 2008. His exhibition titled "Past and Present" at the Makutano Art Gallery in Dar es Salaam in 2011, among others, illustrates the depth and breadth of his work. His consistent presence in the art galleries of Tanzania and Kenya underscores his significant impact and contribution to the East African art scene.

Beyond his solo endeavors, Chilonga has been an active participant in numerous group exhibitions across a vast geographical spectrum, including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia, Switzerland, Germany, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Austria, the United States, and Canada. His international presence was marked by exhibitions like "Hello East Africa" in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2012, and at the Royal Commonwealth Club in London, UK, the same year, showcasing his wide-reaching influence and appeal.

Chilonga's commitment to his craft extends to his participation in workshops, where he both honed his skills and contributed to the artistic community. His involvement in notable workshops includes the 6th Insaka International Artists Workshop in Livingstone, Zambia, in 2013, and the Thupelo International Workshop in South Africa in 2006, among others.

His talent and contributions have been recognized through various accolades, including being the third winner of the art competition marking a hundred and fifty years of Italian unification in 2011, organized by the Italian Embassy in Tanzania, and securing a place in the top ten for the Art Against AIDS by MACMILLAN in South Africa in 2002.

Chilonga's extensive body of work, marked by his participation in exhibitions, workshops, and his receipt of prestigious awards, reflects his profound impact on the art world, both in his native Tanzania and internationally.

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