The Indian High Commission has partnered with the Namibian Crafts Centre to promote local and Indian arts, especially now during these tough times of Covid-19 that has seen a drop in the sale of artefacts.
The Incredible India Fair was recently launched at the Omba Gallery to enable visitors at the Gallery at Namibia Craft Centre to experience a little bit of India by showcasing handmade arts and crafts, fabric and food products that are available at the fair until 7 May 2021.
“The fair brings together and presents beautiful artisanal, handicraft, textile, herbal and food products from India, which are not commonly available in the Namibian market,” stated the High Commission of India Prashant Agrawal.
With the world facing economic challenges and battling Covid-19, Agrawal said the survival of crafts and artisans, which is a way of life, has been hugely affected.
“India is celebrating 75 independence this year and we saw it as an opportunity to bring artefacts from there as well. It is great for people to come to the centre and get some beautiful designers pieces from India,” said Agrawal.
He also stated that the fair will showcase a variety of arts and include food, textiles, garments and organic products that will be showcased to Namibians – at the same time supporting Namibia and what it has to offer in terms of handicrafts.
“The portion of the sale proceeds will go to the craft centre but more importantly, every visitor coming to the exhibition will also come and have a look at the beautiful arts on display that Namibia has. It’s a joined collaborative effort, Namibia and Indian societies both value craft in the same, which can be sustainable,” Agrawal concluded.
Promoting and protecting art and traditions is something special for everyone; that is why India last year hosted Namibian dancers and craftsmen at one the biggest fairs, received as Indians and intrigued with the artistic abilities of Namibians.
– psiririka@nepc.com.na