The National Art Gallery of Namibia

The state-owned National Art Gallery of Namibia (NAGN) finds its mission in “informing and inspiring” local people and visitors about Namibian art and culture. Born from the efforts of the pre-independence Art Association of Namibia, a legislative act created the NAGN in 2000. Located in Windhoek, the NGN building has historically housed performances spaces and the Scientific Society.

The National Art Gallery of Namibia in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia (image credit Bruno Nepomuceno)

Besides showcasing pieces from its three permanent collections, the NAGN also changes its exhibits  frequently to temporarily host works by Namibian and international artists. Currently, an educational program with lectures and tours is in development by the Gallery. The NAGN is especially interested in promoting the work of local artists and students of art, as well as encouraging public art practice and display in the community.

A piece from the 2013 exhibition ‘Optimist’ by Papa Shikongeni (photo credit Selma Kaulinge).


In 2018, the NAGN will continue to host the University of Namibia’s Graduate projects in the visual arts, a photographic exhibition by The Phoenix Project documenting Namibian youth and efforts to improve health, poverty, and opportunity, and a display of works and interactive installation from the permanent collection entitled ‘Textiles and Textures’.

Notable events and exhibitions opening this year include a playful collaboration by Namibian and
German artists, an exploration of culture and surroundings by the printmaker Kandjengo, new
beginnings of work from recent graduates, a celebration of Namibia through art called NA/M(E)/BIA, the Tulipamwe International Artists’ Exhibition, and BOOTH, an open call to all artists to display in the Main Gallery.


References:

http://nagn.org.na/index.php





Posted by Hayden Payne