First artistic dialogue “Land Matters in Art ”

Minister of Lands and Resettlement, Alpheus G. !Naruseb launched the artistic dialogue “Land Matters in Art – Namibian Art Project”, on 05 October at the Katutura Community Arts Centre in Windhoek.
!Naruseb said “Land Matters in Art” adopts the position voiced in the draft Policy on Arts and Culture which states that “the government wishes that all Namibians take part in creative activities. This includes expressing yourself through different art forms, sharing your thoughts and insights on life and unleashing your creative potential.”
Visual artists from all walks of life are invited to contribute their creative expressions about land and land reform. A “Call for Artists and Artwork” goes out to all artists doing any kind of visual art. Established professionals, artists ‘in the making’, as well as students and newcomers are invited to join the project “Land Matters in Art”.Any of the following formats can be used: painting, printing, drawing, photography, sculpting, print making, mixed media, video, textile, ceramic, installation, land art, or any other visual art form. Entries must be submitted in the week of 21 to 25 January 2013.
A professional selection panel made up of experienced senior artists and representatives from various institutions will evaluate the submitted artworks, a selection of which will be shown at different venues in Windhoek during March and April 2013. These locations will include the National Art Gallery and the Ministry of Lands and Resettlement, and possibly the Franco Namibian Culture Centre (FNCC), the Goethe Centre and the University of Namibia.
With support from all partners, the project will offer a variety of benefits to support and motivate Namibian artists. The John Muafangejo Art Centre provides a limited amount of materials as well as free access and use of studio space at the centre. After the jury’s evaluation process, selected artists will receive a Certificate of Participation and have the opportunity to sell their work. A full colour catalogue will be published and the project website will display information about participating artists and their works including an online gallery. The project also supports artistic education. Artists can apply for three N$5000 tuition grants for tertiary education.
The Ministry of Lands and Resettlement and a number of institutions have committed to purchasing works on exhibition for their collections. If artists are working in the area of Land Art or Art Installations, financial support for nominated artwork concepts might be provided. These concepts are to be handed in at any time before 30 November via e-mail.