Kolmanskop, the abandoned diamond mining town located just 10 kilometres inland from Lüderitz in southern Namibia, is experiencing a resurgence of interest as it revealed a new kind of treasure.
Once a thriving hub of diamond extraction, Kolmanskop fell into disuse as the desert reclaimed the area, covering its history in layers of sand and time.
However, this historic site is now unveiling a different kind of gem — one that doesn’t require digging or sifting through soil. Instead, visitors can now discover these treasures in the form of exquisite photographic art displayed on walls and in display cases.
In a significant development, the original soda factory of Kolmanskop, a relic from the town’s bustling past, has been meticulously renovated and transformed into the Ilford Galerie Kolmanskop.
This gallery is part of an exclusive global network, with only three Ilford Galleries in existence worldwide. The opening of the Ilford Galerie Kolmanskop marks a new chapter in the town’s history, merging its rich heritage with contemporary art.
The Ilford Galerie Kolmanskop, which opened its doors in early July this year, features large-format prints from esteemed professional photographers. Located in the historic building of the soda factory, the gallery occupies four distinct rooms, each showcasing a unique thematic exhibition.
The gallery’s first exhibition presents a diverse array of photographic motifs, capturing the essence of Kolmanskop and the natural beauty of Namibia.
One room is dedicated to a striking collection of black-and-white photographs, offering a timeless perspective on the subject matter.
The featured works include captivating images by renowned photographers: Jandre Germishuizen from Namibia, Wim van den Heever from South Africa, and Michael Poliza and Alexander Heinrichs from Germany. Each photograph reflects a deep connection to the land and its history, captured with remarkable skill and artistry.
The quality of the prints displayed in the gallery is assured by Ilford, a leading manufacturer of film and photo paper. The company’s art print brand, ‘Ilford Galerie,’ is known for its exceptional standards in photographic reproduction.
Before the establishment of the Kolmanskop gallery, Ilford had only two other galleries, located in Malaysia and Thailand. The addition of the Ilford Galerie Kolmanskop to this elite group underscores the significance of the venue and its role in celebrating high-quality photographic art.
The initiative to establish this gallery was spearheaded by Heinrichs, a distinguished photographer and Ilford ‘ambassador,’ who now resides in Walvis Bay. Heinrichs, along with his partners, Pieter Pretorius of Mola Mola Safaris in Walvis Bay and Cicely Burgess of Ghost Town Tours in Lüderitz, have brought this vision to fruition.
Their collaboration highlights a commitment to enhancing the cultural and artistic landscape of Namibia, providing a platform for showcasing both local and international talent.
In addition to the photographic wonders, Kolmanskop continues to offer authentic Namibian diamonds for those interested in acquiring a piece of its rich mining history.
These diamonds, mined by Namdeb, traded by Namdia and refined by Dash Diamonds at Windhoek, are available for purchase in the Kolmanskop Diamond Room, located in the former Casino building.
Each diamond’s authenticity is verified by a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certificate, issued by the GIA, renowned for its rigorous standards in gemstone certification.
Adjacent to the Ilford Galerie Kolmanskop, the Kolmanskop Boutique offers a range of Namibian-made products, including clothing, leather goods and jewellery. The boutique, also owned by Cicely Burgess, adds another layer to the visitor experience, showcasing local craftsmanship and providing a unique shopping opportunity.
Burgess was awarded a 12-year concession for the Kolmanskop tourist attraction two years ago, and her efforts have significantly contributed to the revitalisation of the site.
Burgess expressed her hopes for growth in visitor numbers, aiming to attract more tourists to Kolmanskop.
Currently, the site receives approximately 30 000 visitors annually, including both Namibians and international travellers. The influx of tourists is also bolstered by cruise ships that dock in Lüderitz during Namibia’s summer months from November to April, contributing to the site’s popularity.
The story of Kolmanskop dates to 1908, when Zacharias Lewala discovered the first diamond in the area. This discovery triggered a rush of interest and investment, leading to a booming diamond industry.
Railway supervisor August Stauch, who played a pivotal role in the early days of mining, amassed significant wealth as a result of the find. However, the economic turmoil of the 1929 Wall Street crisis led to the loss of much of Stauch’s fortune.
By the early 1930s, diamond mining in Kolmanskop had ceased, and the town gradually fell into disrepair.
Over the decades, the relentless desert winds and shifting sands began to reclaim the once-bustling settlement. Buildings that once housed miners and their families now stand as ghostly remnants of the past, their interiors filled with sand and decay.
Despite this, Kolmanskop has retained its allure, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of diamond mining.
Today, Kolmanskop stands as a testament to both its historical significance and its ongoing transformation. With the addition of the Ilford Galerie Kolmanskop and the continued availability of authentic Namibian diamonds, the town is reasserting its place in the cultural and artistic landscape.
Visitors can explore its storied past through art and history, discovering the hidden gems that continue to captivate and inspire.
- * Sven-Eric Stender and Christiaan Jacobie are employed by Gondwana.
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