Collector and art patron Hasnaine Yavarhoussen is working to bring Madagascar’s growing contemporary art scene to a wider international audience while supporting artists and cultural initiatives within the country.

Yavarhoussen, a member of Tate’s Africa Acquisitions Committee, founded Fonds Yavarhoussen in 2019 with the aim of supporting and promoting Malagasy art and culture both locally and internationally. One of the organisation’s first major initiatives was sponsoring the Malagasy Pavilion at the Venice Biennale.

Following Madagascar’s appearance at the Venice Biennale, Yavarhoussen and artist Joël Andrianomearisoa co-founded Hakanto Contemporary in February 2020, with Andrianomearisoa taking on the role of artistic director.

Hakanto Contemporary began as a relatively modest multipurpose art space but has since expanded into a renovated warehouse in Antananarivo covering nearly 2,000 square feet.

Through exhibitions, artist residencies, educational programmes and workshops, the organisation has provided new opportunities for Malagasy artists while encouraging greater engagement with contemporary art within Madagascar.

These initiatives have helped establish Yavarhoussen as an influential patron of Madagascar’s art scene while increasing the international visibility of Malagasy artists and positioning the country as an emerging destination within the global contemporary art world.