Simon Mpata (1942-1984)

Simon Mpata (1942-1984) was a Tanzanian artist renowned for his contributions to the Tingatinga art movement. As the youngest half-brother of Edward Tingatinga, the founder of this distinctive style, Mpata was one of only six students trained directly by Tingatinga. Following Edward's death, he relocated to Nairobi, where he developed his unique artistic voice in his own studio.

Mpata's vibrant paintings gained international recognition, particularly through the efforts of Japanese magazine editor Kazumi Oguro. Impressed by Mpata's work during a visit to Kenya, Oguro organized an exposition in New York that significantly boosted Mpata's visibility and popularity, especially in Japan.

Though Mpata did not participate in formal exhibitions, his work remains significant in the art community. His unique blend of color and form continues to resonate with collectors today, highlighting his lasting influence in the Tingatinga movement.

Buck Unframed

Untitled, Undated

Untitled (Hairdressing Day), Undated

Untitled, Circa 1981-3

Simon Mpata (1942-1984) était un peintre tanzanien, l'un des six étudiants seulement à avoir suivi l'enseignement d'Edward Tingatinga en personne, son demi-frère, dans la célèbre école Tingatinga. Ses œuvres d'art ont atteint une notoriété internationale grâce à l'éditeur japonais Kazumi Oguro, qui a notamment organisé une exposition de l'art de Mpata à New York. - La peinture est un peu frottée, éraflée et tachée, le cadre est plus fortement frotté, également avec des manques et un détachement des montages d'angle.