Emerson Collection Catalogue April 2025
April 14, 2025
Events · April 2025
Outside the Lines, an annual exhibition of works from Emerson Skeen's extensive collection, ran from 17 April to 19 June 2025.
Emerson’s Collection 2025
“Outside the Lines” Exhibition — Art Gallery next to Emerson on Hurumzi, from 17th April – 19th June 2025. Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–6pm.
Outside the lines is an annual exhibition showcasing works from Emerson Skeen’s extensive collection of art, artifacts, fabrics, and furniture gathered throughout his time in Zanzibar.
This exhibition highlights the influences behind Emerson’s artistic and cultural vision, connecting his legacy with the foundation’s aim to support individuals with exceptional talents in artistic and academic fields and to assist local organizations that preserve and enhance the culture of Zanzibar.
Emerson Skeen
Those who visited his hotels know Emerson Skeen’s passion for collecting art and artifacts. He was deeply inspired by the island’s rich cultural expressions, often blending Swahili art and objects with modern and foreign influences. His designs were rooted in Swahili traditions, using local materials and techniques suited to the climate and culture.
Emerson Dewey Skeen first traveled to Zanzibar in the 1980s and, after several visits, decided to live there for 25 years. In collaboration with others, he helped launch significant projects such as the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), the Dhow Countries Music Academy, and the internationally recognized Sauti za Busara music festival.
The Opening
In this exhibition we present works of Damian B.K. Msagula. Not much is known about the history of the paintings in Emerson’s collection, other than that they were purchased in the late 1980s and 1990s.
Msagula, originally from Ndanda in the Mtwara region, began his artistic journey with the Tinga Tinga collective in Dar es Salaam. Over time, he developed his own distinct style and became a prominent figure in the Tanzanian art scene, sharing stylistic and thematic connections with peers like George Lilanga and other artists from Nyumba ya Sanaa. Msagula’s work is known for its unique technique, where he boldly colored outside the lines.
The opening of the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Collection 2025 in Stone Town, celebrated the extraordinary contributions of the much loved Tanzanian artist, Damien Msagula. The highlight of the opening on the 17th April 2025 was the introduction given by Jan van Esch, Independent Curator for the exhibition.
The exhibition Catalogue with written and audio guide, and the Curatorial Statement of the seven pieces by the artist Damian Msagula is now online.
Online Catalogue with Audio
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