By Moses Magadza
WINDHOEK
Popularly known by the nickname ‘Sampie’, upcoming Namibian artist Werner Mouton is one of six budding Namibian artists selected to display their works at an exhibition taking place in the capital city this week.
He will be joined by artists who previously exhibited at similar events, Martin Bosman, Darlene Jordaan, David Mushongandebvu and Elia Shiwoohamba. They will be joined by newcomer Festus Kavari.
The fifth event of this nature since the initiative branded Art 4 U was first conceptualised and launched by SMEs Compete in September 2006, provides an opportunity for local artists to showcase and sell their work. It runs from Wednesday to Saturday over lunch and again every evening.
SMEs Compete was motivated to launch and continues to routinely arrange Art 4 U exhibitions as a way of helping Namibian artists’ access markets. The organisation holds the view that art makes an important but frequently unrecognised contribution towards the development of the country’s economy. So it naturally follows, they say artists have an important entrepreneurial role to play in Namibia and consequently must be assisted to secure the true value for their work.
An approach routinely adopted by SMEs Compete when it comes to helping artists and entrepreneurs access markets is to form an alliance with established Namibian firms. This week’s Art 4 U exhibition will again take place at a leading local eatery, The Gourmet Restaurant.
Not only selected for its strategic location right in the heart of Windhoek’s central business district and because it is so known as one of Namibia’s finest restaurants, The Gourmet Restaurant has long been recognised for consistency and quality of its service and cuisine. So those who visit the exhibition can enjoy fine food at the same time.
The owner Carol-Jean Rechter says her restaurant regularly provides opportunities for musicians to demonstrate their talents. She could not hide her excitement that an alliance has been formed with SMEs Compete to provide a forum for talented artists too.
Six artists will show their contemporary work this week. It includes watercolours, oil paintings, drawings, and edge prints. Their realistic and abstract artworks show an innate understanding of Africa’s people and wildlife. Besides the visual art, visitors can enjoy excellent African and continental cuisine at The Gourmet Restaurant.