The National Arts Council of Namibia granted funds totalling N$167 232 to eight successful applicants under its cycle one grants’ payment period in 2023.
The NACN, as an organisation dedicated to assisting artists and their creative efforts, recognises the critical role artists play in influencing culture and society.
It also recognises that artists frequently confront obstacles due to a lack of money and resources, particularly during unusual times.
NACN administrator Gretta Gaspar said in a media statement that it wants to provide financial support to artists, while also assisting them in managing their resources wisely. In order to achieve this goal, it has introduced a new method to artists’ awards.
Instead of receiving a big sum upfront, the grant will be distributed in quarterly instalments, allowing artists to have a consistent source of income during the course of the project.
“Upon signing the grant agreement, the payment process for each project will be launched, covering the entire quarter of the project,” it said.
This all-inclusive method ensures that all project payments are accounted for within the specified timeframe, with no extensions to
the project timeline.
The NACN funds projects across various disciplines, aligning with its mandate. Artists can thus apply for funding in the disciplines of craft, dance, literature, multi-discipline art, music, theatre and visual arts.
To be eligible for funding, applicants must demonstrate their project’s capacity to address at least one of its critical focus areas, which includes social protection and research, unearthing marginalised and indigenous arts in rural areas, addressing social ills such as unemployment and gender-based violence, supporting the involvement of women, youth, employment opportunities, and people living with disabilities, creation of new works through digital media, capacity- building and arts entrepreneurship.
“By incorporating these focus areas, the NACN aims to foster a diverse and inclusive artistic landscape that tackles societal challenges and promotes growth within the arts sector,” it said.
– Nampa