Malangatana Valente Ngwenya Mozambique

Artist, performer and freedom fighter Malangatana Valente Ngwenya has greatly influenced the arts in his country and continent. Working in a naive, almost surrealist style, Malangatana depicts a colony in decline and the pointless suffering of the people. The combination of traditional forms with a personal touch has made his work famous and loved. The Maconde sculptural tradition is apparent in his murals and paintings. During his country’s struggle for independence, Malangatana’s engagement was reflected in both his work and activities. It earned him eighteenth months in a colonial jail.