Background Story

View the work here: https://youtu.be/p4dwW1PPCJA

Tanzanian Lover

While wandering through a thrift shop, I discovered a wooden figurine that immediately captivated me with its fine, intricate carvings. Upon closer study, I found the artist’s mark: it was carved in April 1967 by Felician Mbamse from the Mwanza region of Tanzania.

I felt a deep necessity to bring it home. I found myself wondering how it traveled from Tanzania to a Dutch thrift shop—perhaps carried by European travelers decades ago? I imagined Felician’s process: the feeling of the wood, the pride of the sale.

To honor this unknown connection, I created a series of four 30×40 cm canvases. Using old clothing, oil pastels, and heavy acrylics, I built a tribute to Felician’s craftsmanship. Though I do not know if Felician is still with us, I hope this "thank you" is felt in spirit. The entire process was a meaningful love affair with the history of the piece; hence, I have titled it Tanzanian Lover.