“I watched movies, looked at newspapers and researched each character I portrayed. They are all true stories,” says Fosso, dressed in a casual black leather jacket. Though some critics regard the self portraits as unoriginal and self-indulgent, Fosso insists, “The works From the Dreams of My Grandfather is a tribute to my grandfather who is a second god to me. Would anybody be self-indulgent in portraying his grandfather?” His discovery not only made him a celebrity but also brought art from Africa suddenly into focus. “It helped me financially,” says Fosso.

The 30 photographs on display date from 1976 to 2003, from early black-and-white poses in striped briefs and white gloves on a chequered floor to the pronounced Tati series where he turns into a bedecked African chief, a bodyguard brandishing flashy glares and a society woman trussed in a black dress with faux fur. Would he contemplate moving to Europe? “No, this is my land,” emphasises Fosso, based in Bangui.

The exhibition is on till January 2, 2009. From 11am to 7 pm. Contact 28755940. Price on request.