National Art Gallery, RMB Namibia partner to support amateur artists
Rand Merchant Bank Namibia together with the National Art Gallery of Namibia this week officially launched the ‘RMB Come Together Workshop Series’ in Windhoek.
The workshops are a unique series that will be facilitated by professional artists, who will create a sustainable link between aspiring artists and the general art industry in which they might find themselves on their artistic journey.
A minimum of four workshops will be held annually outside Windhoek central area, and two in Windhoek area, thus a total of minimum six workshop per year, and eighteen workshops over three years.
The project will be rolled-out in the 14 regions commencing with the Print-making project in Windhoek from 19 to 23 February. Financial support by RMB Namibia is valued at over N$400,000 over the next three years.
“A strong arts education is a foundation to developing creative, educated citizens. Students explore the world through an artistic lens, and can express ideas, opinions, beliefs, emotions, and perspectives. Engaging in the creative process encourages thinking and problem-solving skills vital to living in our rapidly changing world. The arts connect students with history, heritage and culture, fostering an understanding of the diverse values and perspectives of national and global societies. Even if many of the participants in the workshop do not go on to become practicing artists, these kinds of workshops also facilitate creative growth and the expression of ideas, which is proven to improve wellbeing and mental health,” said Rehabeam Auala, RMB CSI Committee Chairperson.
Art Gallery Chief Executive, Snobia Kaputu thanked RMB Namibia for their support of the workshops which would be held in 14 regions of the country.
“The ‘Come Together Workshops’ will focus on collaborative efforts and facilitation that encourages team work amongst the participants. These kinds of efforts are important in providing a platform for young participants to navigate group dynamics in a secure and encouraging setting,” said Kaputu.
Ndasuunye Papa Shikongeni, Workshop Facilitator said that it is important that society and government see art investment in youth as a priority because it enables the development of arts within the education system.
“Creativity is the daily life we live in, everything we have is art; our clothes, jewellery, shoes and even cell phones- even our cars are designed by artists,” Shikongeni added.
Shikongeni further said that there must be a vision that looks at art design so that the youth can also become like the art legends; John Mwafengeyo, Joself Madisia, Andrew van Wyk, Trudie Dicks, and Peter Mwahalungange.
