Applications are now open for professional artists to attend an Artists’ Retreat from 1 to 16 October 2022 at Baker’s Bay, situated in the Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) National Park. The art fields to be considered are visual (painting, sculpture, installation, printmaking, etc.) performing, creative writing, photography and videography. Each application will be evaluated primarily on the quality of examples of previous work, as well as the motivations given. Entries close at 17h00 on 25 August 2022.
Participants will be required to produce a series of artworks that reflect the conservation and social history of Baker’s Bay in the national park, which is situated in one of the world’s top 25 biodiversity hotspots.
It has been the subject of scientific research and conservation efforts over many decades. According to a media statement issued by organisers Namdeb, OMDis and StArt Art Gallery, the selected artists will be guided through the historical aspects of the space, the need for conservation, and the unique human footprint that has been left on this deserted landscape.
“The artists will then work together in isolation for a full week, and the retreat will close with an exhibition/showcase in Oranjemund of the work produced during that time. A repeat exhibition will later be held in Windhoek,” reads the statement.
The Artists’ Retreat held at Bogenfels in the coastal Namib Desert in 2021 resulted in 63 original artworks being produced on site, which were successfully exhibited in Oranjemund and Windhoek.
This project laid the groundwork for a truly unique and sought-after experience.
“As seen from the last Artists’ Retreat, this experience is conducive to creativity, and we are certain that the results of this retreat will be interesting and enlightening to many people, both in Namibia and abroad.” Organisers are confident that through art, complex themes and information can be highlighted, communicated and made accessible to non-expert audiences.
“This makes art the perfect conduit to spread the messages associated with Oranjemund and the adjacent national park’s unique history and significant environmental importance.”
For more information, visit: www.startartgallery.com or contact Helen Harris at StArt Art Gallery on 081 3376582 or Ronel van der Merwe at ronel@omdis.co