Lobulu Emmanuel Tanzanian Artist

Emmanuel “Baba” Lobulu is an indigenous Maasai who rose from traditional cow-herding roots to become one of the most gifted modern painters in Tanzania.

His work caught the attention of two Australia collectors, who arranged for him to exhibit in Queensland, Australia, there Lobulu was introduced to acrylic paints and canvas, a medium he enthusiastically adopted and brought back to Tanzania.

Baba Lobulu’s unique acrylic style is unmistakable; large, abstractly colorful, and yet intensely realistic, his portraits of his Maasai countrymen are dramatic pieces. His use of international technique and aesthetic to depict subjects from his indigenous heritage is a beautifully successful blend of the modern and traditional. Baba Lobulu’s work is proudly shown throughout Tanzania.