Was Keith Haring (see the photo on the right, source: Wikipedia) really inspired by Hendrick Lilanga´s grandfather? The biography of Keith Haring says: “In 1976, Haring enrolled in the Ivy School of Professional Art in Pittsburgh, a commercial arts school. He soon realized that he had little interest in becoming a commercial graphic artist and, after two semesters, dropped out. Haring continued to study and work on his own and in 1978 had a solo exhibition of his work at the Pittsburgh Arts and Crafts Center." It is the same year 1978 as George Lilanga, Hendrick´s grandfather had the exhibition in Washington. Did Haring visit the Lilanga exhibition?

The book “George Lilanga – Colours of Africa” by Cesare Pippi states: “ Keith Haring himself said in an interview that he has been influenced by Lilanga´s art”. Keith Haring himself painted a small painting to Simon Mpata, brother of E.S.Tingatinga which shows that Keith Haring was inspired by Tinga Tinga and Lilanga Art.

I gave a DVD to Hendrik Lilanga, who continues in his grandfather´s art style. After watching it, he said:

The artwork of John Kilaka was included in the 2010 Fine Art Collection (www.2010fineart.com). The original art has been reproduced  in  210 limited edition fine art prints, signed by the artist and  offered for acquisition to discerning collectors and football fans from around the world.  These limited edition prints are Official Licensed Products of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South AfricaTM. (www.FIFA.com)

"His style, my grandfather’s style and my style are similar. But Keith worked in the country or environmentwhich was very positive to art. We work in different conditions. Tanzanians don’t appreciate art. Wedon’t even document our work. But Keith´s work is well preserved and I had chance today to learn something. Keith is still living with us through his art like Picaso or other big artists."

"Maybe my Grandfather used different colors but they had same idea though the vast distance in between them. Keith seems to be “infected”  by grandfather´s work. I was surprised when I saw Keith working in the film. I thought the similarities are striking."

"Every time while he painted he created something new. Every part has its own design. He knew in advance how the painting would look like. That is why he was so quick while painting. Everything was fast and clear. Try yourself. That is very difficult to do. But Keith could do it. But in sometimes he was thinking hard and he did lead the attention of the viewers to somethingelse." Hendrick Lilanga 2010

You can read more about Hendrick Lilanga on www.lilanga.org and about Keith Haring on www.haring.com

New Art Works Available in Tanzania