Visual artists eager to exhibit their work are invited to apply to the Namibian Arts Association (NAA).
Pivoting from last year’s focus on creative entrepreneurship and the association’s heritage collection, this year, the NAA aims to spotlight both new and established creatives exhibiting as solo artists, groups or collectives.
“As part of the NAA’s mission, we are creating a platform for artists to display their works. We would like to see new and upcoming artists, the younger generation, rising to the opportunity to showcase their talents,” says NAA executive manager Jaimee-Lee Diergaardt.
“We would also really like to see the older artists who have seemingly retired from this trade to consider making a comeback. It would be amazing to see the themes they come up with and how they would merge their styles with that of the new, contemporary world.”
The NAA gallery can accommodate a variety of mediums, installations and visual displays, and all themes are welcome. Selected artists will receive gallery space, assistance with installation, and marketing support from the NAA.
Potential exhibitors must be members of the NAA and applications should include a 150-word artist statement, a concept note explaining the body of work and five to 10 clear images of the collection.
Applications are open until 20 February.
“We encourage artists to send through any and all concepts. We are looking at having an outdoor exhibition whereby we would like to facilitate the display of art installations in various public spaces,” says Diergaardt.
Diergaardt also offers some advice on submitting a solid application.
“A good application conveys what the artist wishes to achieve – how and by when. If the artist already has work readily available, they can include pictures of the works. The applicants should also include an artist statement and a write up of what inspired them to create the body of work,” says Diergaardt.
“Don’t overthink. Write it in simple English. We, the NAA, will still assist you in finalising it. If you need help, don’t hesitate to call us for assistance on 061 302 261.”
Encouraging young, mid-career, veteran artists, as well as “anyone with a visual story that they would like to share” to apply, Diergaardt looks forward to numerous applications ahead of a year broadly focused on community building and collaboration.
Follow the NNA on social media for more information. Applications can be sent to developer@naa.na before 20 February.
– martha@namibian.com.na; Martha Mukaiwa on Twitter and Instagram; marthamukaiwa.com
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