James Stephenson is a leading expert on the art of East Africa. His interest in East Africa, its people, and its art began in 1989. Since that transformational experience, he has lived, worked and explored the area acquiring an intimate knowledge of its peoples and their lifestyles. He speaks fluent Swahili, and has written three books about his experiences. "The Language of the Land: Living Among the Hadzabe in Africa", was published by St. Martin’s Press in 2000.

James’ experiences in the field combined with his work for the BBC, The Travel Channel, and his academic research has given him a comprehensive perspective. James frequently serves as consultant for collectors and has been on vetting committees for many international tribal art exhibitions.

The Art Institute of Chicago featured a Zigua or Saamba Fetish, field collected by James Stephenson.
Read the article - "The African Art Gallery", by Kathleen Bickford Berzock, Tribal Arts Magazine