Emerson Zanzibar Visual Arts Awards 2023

Hadithi ya Bibi (Grandmother’s Story)

The Art Exhibition “Hadithi ya Bibi” is officially opened.

All this year’s participating artists are between 18 and 35 years old and their artworks all follow their interpretation of the theme of the exhibition. This year’s theme is ‘Grandmother’s Story’.  Through this exhibition the new generation is connecting to the older history.

On the 8th of December the annual Art Award will be presented to one of the participating artists. You are welcome to this event from 4pm in the Emerson’s Zanzibar Art Gallery by Emerson on Hurumzi hotel.

Curious about the artworks? Do come over for the exhibition daily between 10.00 and 18.00 and the artworks will be on display until the 7th of January 2024.

If you would like to see all the artists involved in this year’s Art Award and Exhibition download the full list here.

Participating Artists 2023

In November 2023, Emerson Zanzibar Foundation put out a call for all artists to participate in this joint exhibition. To celebrate local art and culture, the Emerson Zanzibar Foundation launched its 3rd Visual Arts Award, with the winner announced and award presentation in the week of the exhibition. Currently around a dozen artists are participating in the exhibition and prestigious award.

The Art Exhibition is at the Gallery in Emerson on Hurumzi – December 2023-January 2024

How this online gallery works:

  • To view each artist and bio just click on the Artist’s image.  
  • Swipe right to see the next artist in alphabetical order.
  • You can share each of the images to social media, if you wish.

The Particpants 2023

This year all participating artists were between 18 and 35 years old and their artworks follow their interpretation of the theme of the exhibition. Through this exhibition the new generation is connecting to the older local history. See the video of the participants.  With thanks to the movie producer: Merete Stubhaug.

The 3rd Art Award Exhibition officially opened

Yussuf received the award for his artwork “Jiko La Zamani”.

Thank you Salma Adym for hosting and MCing.  Thanks to the trustees for their attendance and supportive words, and thanks to the guest of honor, Dr Omar of the Baraza la Sanaa, who promised to arrange certificates for all participants for their participation in the exhibition and for registering the artists for free.

Thanks also to the first buyers, one artwork by Suzana was sold already!

All participating artists are between 18 and 35 years old and their artworks all follow their interpretation of the theme of the exhibition. Through this exhibition the new generation is connecting to the older history.

The Awards 2023

On the 8th of December the annual Art Award was presented by Dr Omar of BASSFU in the Emerson’s Zanzibar Art Gallery by Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel.

Yussuf received the award for his artwork “Jiko La Zamani”. Rogoo was runner up with his artwork Strong Woman. The people’s choice award went to Camii (Samira Said Ail) for the artwork Beauty of Jang’ombe.

A Year since the Emerson Zanzibar Art Gallery Opened

Celebrating Art – Art Exhibition & Artists’ Stories

Emerson Zanzibar Foundation believes passionately in promoting and preserving the local culture of Zanzibar, in visual art, musical art, film and literacy.

Emerson Zanzibar 3rd Art Award

On the 8th of December the annual Art Award will be presented to one of the participating artists. You are welcome to this event from 4pm in the Emerson’s Zanzibar Art Gallery by Emerson on Hurumzi hotel.

Curious about the artworks? Do come over for the exhibition daily between 10.00 and 18.00 and the artworks will be on display until the 7th of January 2024.

Emerson Zanzibar Foundation Celebrating Local Artists

Artists join Emerson Zanzibar to inspire local creativity

During the worldwide Covid Pandemic, Emerson Zanzibar Hotels started holding art exhibitions in a different way to how they had been done previously. These were curated exhibitions, styled around a live interview with the artist. Everyone was welcomed in Emerson Zanzibar style – from the few, curious tourists to residents, to invited special guests – with fresh hibiscus juice, ginger tea, local snacks and sweets lovingly made by the hotel’s chef.

A group of artists approached Emerson Zanzibar with the request to organise an exhibition with both established and young, upcoming artists – to provide an opportunity for well established artists to share their experiences and for the young a chance to show their work publicly.

The idea grew from visual art, expanding to creativity in music, a special dinner planned to share local creativity in gastronomy and also combined with the regular Emerson Zanzibar Foundation’s award to celebrate Zanzibari film-makers.

Emerson Zanzibar is not just hotels and restaurants; since our doors opened, Emerson Zanzibar has been very closely connected to the creative sector. And so the Visual Arts awards began…’ 

We are on Instagram
Come and see the “Expressions of Zanzibar Women” exhibition. 

Open from 1-30 November Tuesday - Sunday 10.00-18.00 at the Emerson Art Gallery at Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel, Stone Town.

Robin Batista’s exhibition, “Expressions of Zanzibar Women”, showcases the resilience, power, determination, and strength of Zanzibari women through a visual journey of vibrant photographs. 

Each image tells a story that reflects the rich culture and traditions of Zanzibar, highlighting the courage of women as they engage with their communities and nurture their families. 

The exhibition celebrates their extraordinary contributions and honors their legacy, inviting viewers to experience the profound emotions and powerful narratives captured in Batista’s art. 

Limited edition prints are available.

Come and see the “Expressions of Zanzibar Women” exhibition.

Open from 1-30 November Tuesday - Sunday 10.00-18.00 at the Emerson Art Gallery at Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel, Stone Town.

Robin Batista’s exhibition, “Expressions of Zanzibar Women”, showcases the resilience, power, determination, and strength of Zanzibari women through a visual journey of vibrant photographs.

Each image tells a story that reflects the rich culture and traditions of Zanzibar, highlighting the courage of women as they engage with their communities and nurture their families.

The exhibition celebrates their extraordinary contributions and honors their legacy, inviting viewers to experience the profound emotions and powerful narratives captured in Batista’s art.

Limited edition prints are available.
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Come join the Wednesday Night Live Magic at Secret Garden, Emerson Spice, Stone Town with FaAnna Theatre Zanzibar!

Every Wednesday and Friday we have amazing live music

Starting from 20.00

October 2024 programme:

Friday 04 October - Culture Musical Club
Friday 11 October - Zenji Boy na Wenzake
Wednesday 16 October - FaAna Theatre Zanzibar
Friday 18 October - La Rhumba with Chris Nova
Friday 25 October - Wakarofi Trio
Wednesday 30 October - Crossing Rhythms: Cameroon and Tanzania Soundscapes with Patrick Bebey, Leo Mkanyia & DCMA Young Stars

Entrance Fee of Tsh 10,000

Secret Garden is found in Emerson Spice Hotel, Stone Town

Reservations recommended, please book via WhatsApp +255 774 483 483
or reception@emersonspice.com for restaurant bookings and reservations@emersonspice.com for room reservations.

Overnight stays can be arranged in one of the hotel rooms, enquire with reservations@emersonzanzibar.com for the rates and availability at Emerson Spice and Emerson on Hurumzi

#StoneTownEvents #zanzibarlife #zanzibarevents #SecretGarden #SecretGardenZanzibar #EmersonZanzibar #Wednesdaynightlive #FridayNightLive #Livemusicstonetown #livemusiczanzibar #stonetownrestaurants #placestoeatstonetown #stonetowndining

Come join the Wednesday Night Live Magic at Secret Garden, Emerson Spice, Stone Town with FaAnna Theatre Zanzibar!

Every Wednesday and Friday we have amazing live music

Starting from 20.00

October 2024 programme:

Friday 04 October - Culture Musical Club
Friday 11 October - Zenji Boy na Wenzake
Wednesday 16 October - FaAna Theatre Zanzibar
Friday 18 October - La Rhumba with Chris Nova
Friday 25 October - Wakarofi Trio
Wednesday 30 October - Crossing Rhythms: Cameroon and Tanzania Soundscapes with Patrick Bebey, Leo Mkanyia & DCMA Young Stars

Entrance Fee of Tsh 10,000

Secret Garden is found in Emerson Spice Hotel, Stone Town

Reservations recommended, please book via WhatsApp +255 774 483 483
or reception@emersonspice.com for restaurant bookings and reservations@emersonspice.com for room reservations.

Overnight stays can be arranged in one of the hotel rooms, enquire with reservations@emersonzanzibar.com for the rates and availability at Emerson Spice and Emerson on Hurumzi

#StoneTownEvents #zanzibarlife #zanzibarevents #SecretGarden #SecretGardenZanzibar #EmersonZanzibar #Wednesdaynightlive #FridayNightLive #Livemusicstonetown #livemusiczanzibar #stonetownrestaurants #placestoeatstonetown #stonetowndining
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Msanii, Muongozaji na Mwenyekiti wa Chama cha Wasanii wa Filamu Zanzibar Mohammed Suleiman Maarufu @muddysule_94 Usiku Wa Jana amechukua Tuzo ya Filamu Bora iliyotolewa Na Emerson Foundation kwenye Usiku Wa Zawadi Zanzibar International Film Festival.

Congratulations @muddysule_94 for winning Emarson Awards @emersonzanzibarfoundation
@mwenenu_binnassib @emersonzanzibarfoundation and @ziffestival 

#ZIFFAwards #ZIFF27 #ziff2024 #africanfilms #films #filmawards #filmscreenings

Msanii, Muongozaji na Mwenyekiti wa Chama cha Wasanii wa Filamu Zanzibar Mohammed Suleiman Maarufu @muddysule_94 Usiku Wa Jana amechukua Tuzo ya Filamu Bora iliyotolewa Na Emerson Foundation kwenye Usiku Wa Zawadi Zanzibar International Film Festival.

Congratulations @muddysule_94 for winning Emarson Awards @emersonzanzibarfoundation
@mwenenu_binnassib @emersonzanzibarfoundation and @ziffestival

#ZIFFAwards #ZIFF27 #ziff2024 #africanfilms #films #filmawards #filmscreenings
...

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Don't miss the exhibition of ZIFF posters from 1997 to 2024 at the Emerson Foundation Art Gallery next to Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel, Stone Town | Zanzibar international film festival |

The Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), now in its 27th year, stands as a shining example of cultural interaction
and cinematic excellence in East Africa. 

This year’s theme, “Rejuvenation,” timely captures the festival’s enduring spirit
and its commitment to cultural dialogue and sociocultural commentary.

The exhibition of ZIFF posters from 1997 to 2024 provides a visual narrative of the festival’s journey. Each poster is a
snapshot of its time, reflecting the themes, challenges, and triumphs of that particular year. Together, these posters
chronicle the evolution of ZIFF, showcasing its resilience in the face of changing times and its ability to rejuvenate and adapt continuously.

The posters are more than just promotional materials; they are historical documents that capture the essence of each festival edition. They tell stories of global cultural interactions, of encounters that transcend borders, and of a festival that has grown to become one of East Africa’s most significant cultural events.

This exhibition invites viewers to journey through 27 years of cinematic history, to witness the transformation of ZIFF,
and to celebrate its contributions to the global film landscape. As we look to the future, these posters remind us of the festival’s storied past and its potential to inspire and rejuvenate in the years to come.

#ZIFFAwards #ZIFF27 #ziff2024 #africanfilms #films #filmawards #filmscreenings

Don`t miss the exhibition of ZIFF posters from 1997 to 2024 at the Emerson Foundation Art Gallery next to Emerson on Hurumzi Hotel, Stone Town | Zanzibar international film festival |

The Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), now in its 27th year, stands as a shining example of cultural interaction
and cinematic excellence in East Africa.

This year’s theme, “Rejuvenation,” timely captures the festival’s enduring spirit
and its commitment to cultural dialogue and sociocultural commentary.

The exhibition of ZIFF posters from 1997 to 2024 provides a visual narrative of the festival’s journey. Each poster is a
snapshot of its time, reflecting the themes, challenges, and triumphs of that particular year. Together, these posters
chronicle the evolution of ZIFF, showcasing its resilience in the face of changing times and its ability to rejuvenate and adapt continuously.

The posters are more than just promotional materials; they are historical documents that capture the essence of each festival edition. They tell stories of global cultural interactions, of encounters that transcend borders, and of a festival that has grown to become one of East Africa’s most significant cultural events.

This exhibition invites viewers to journey through 27 years of cinematic history, to witness the transformation of ZIFF,
and to celebrate its contributions to the global film landscape. As we look to the future, these posters remind us of the festival’s storied past and its potential to inspire and rejuvenate in the years to come.

#ZIFFAwards #ZIFF27 #ziff2024 #africanfilms #films #filmawards #filmscreenings
...

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This is a sad announcement and a big blow to the Art of Zanzibar. The famous Zanzibar music artist Rico Single @ricosinglezanzibar has passed away.

Hii nitaarifa ya kusikitisha na pigo kubwa katika Sanaa ya Zanzibar Msanii maarufu wa muziki Zanzibar Rico Single @ricosinglezanzibar amefariki 

Rico was one of the participants in the Emerson Zanzibar Foundation Music Award 2020.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Our heartfelt love goes out to all his family and friends.

This is a sad announcement and a big blow to the Art of Zanzibar. The famous Zanzibar music artist Rico Single @ricosinglezanzibar has passed away.

Hii nitaarifa ya kusikitisha na pigo kubwa katika Sanaa ya Zanzibar Msanii maarufu wa muziki Zanzibar Rico Single @ricosinglezanzibar amefariki

Rico was one of the participants in the Emerson Zanzibar Foundation Music Award 2020. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Our heartfelt love goes out to all his family and friends.
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We are celebrating the 10 year anniversary of the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation with a variety of events:

⚫ Thursday 25 April 2024 from 16.30 – 18.00
Opening of “10 years Anniversary Art Exhibition” in the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery

⚫ Friday 26 April 2024 from 20.00
Live music performance by Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Music Award recipients in Secret Garden, (entrance fee of 10,000 TZS per person goes directly to the musicians)

⚫Saturday 27 April 2024 from 17.00 – 18.00
DCMA Unplugged concert in Hurumzi street

For dinner on Friday night in the Secret Garden, please email: es.reception@emersonzanzibar.com or WhatsApp: 0774 483 483 to make a reservation and purchase your tickets in advance.
For dinner on Saturday in Emerson on Hurumzi in the Tea House restaurant, please email: eh.reception@emersonzanzibar.com or WhatsApp: 0779 854 225

Various workshops aimed at the artists in Zanzibar, which are also take place this weekend. If you would like to attend any of these workshops, please email us at foundation@emersonzanzibar.com, so we can reserve a space for you.

⚫Friday 26 April 2024 16.30 – 18.00
Discussion session for young Zanzibari visual artists: “History and future for Visual Artists in Zanzibar.” In Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery.

⚫Sunday 28 April 2024 10.00 – 11.00
Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Music Award recipients gather to discuss their joint performance and future collaborations in Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery.

⚫Sunday 28 April 2024 11.00 – 12.30
Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation meets Zanzibari film makers with discussion on opportunities for film makers in Zanzibar in Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery.

You are all warmly invited to join us in the upcoming events of the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation!

We are celebrating the 10 year anniversary of the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation with a variety of events:

⚫ Thursday 25 April 2024 from 16.30 – 18.00
Opening of “10 years Anniversary Art Exhibition” in the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery

⚫ Friday 26 April 2024 from 20.00
Live music performance by Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Music Award recipients in Secret Garden, (entrance fee of 10,000 TZS per person goes directly to the musicians)

⚫Saturday 27 April 2024 from 17.00 – 18.00
DCMA Unplugged concert in Hurumzi street

For dinner on Friday night in the Secret Garden, please email: es.reception@emersonzanzibar.com or WhatsApp: 0774 483 483 to make a reservation and purchase your tickets in advance.
For dinner on Saturday in Emerson on Hurumzi in the Tea House restaurant, please email: eh.reception@emersonzanzibar.com or WhatsApp: 0779 854 225

Various workshops aimed at the artists in Zanzibar, which are also take place this weekend. If you would like to attend any of these workshops, please email us at foundation@emersonzanzibar.com, so we can reserve a space for you.

⚫Friday 26 April 2024 16.30 – 18.00
Discussion session for young Zanzibari visual artists: “History and future for Visual Artists in Zanzibar.” In Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery.

⚫Sunday 28 April 2024 10.00 – 11.00
Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Music Award recipients gather to discuss their joint performance and future collaborations in Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery.

⚫Sunday 28 April 2024 11.00 – 12.30
Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation meets Zanzibari film makers with discussion on opportunities for film makers in Zanzibar in Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation Art Gallery.

You are all warmly invited to join us in the upcoming events of the Emerson’s Zanzibar Foundation!
...

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