An exhibition by Unam visual arts graduates opened at the National Art Gallery of Namibia (NAGN) on Thursday under the theme “Visual Arts Graduates’ Exhibition: Class of 2022”.
The exhibition showcases the work of 13 students, and forms part of their practical assessment for the final-year Diploma and Bachelor’s (Honours) degree.
It also celebrates the diverse disciplines through an amalgamated display of artistry and technique, setting the scene to introduce the newly-graduated artists into the sector.
The presentation is an artistic display of work themed by creative expression, ceramic studies, textile studies and arts for advertising.
A statement by the NAGN said while addressing various social themes such as the effect of Covid-19, trauma, self-harm based on personal feelings, cultural and emotional identity, amongst others, the exhibitors were challenged to think critically and produce work that creates engagement and dialogue with the audience. Visitors will also be privy to their creative processes, from conceptualisation to practice and implementation.
Co-curated by Unam’s Visual Arts Department and the NAGN, the collective efforts towards furthering visual arts and crafts in the country remain the focal point.
Much like the gallery’s mission to encourage the formation of a national, regional and global consciousness of the value of visual arts and crafts, the university has embraced arts as an essential part of education, acknowledging its Visual Arts Department’s contribution towards the development of visual culture in Namibia.
“This exhibit again endorses the effects of visual art education in helping students understand fundamental skills like reading and writing, as well as the ability to communicate better,” reads the statement.
“Furthermore, visual art is an essential component of the human experience, helping to understand local history and culture, as well as the lives and experiences of others in a manner that cannot be achieved otherwise.”
UNAM and the NAGN congratulated all the graduates for their achievements, and are delighted to welcome them into the arts industry.
The exhibition will be on view in the NAGN Main Gallery and Foyer until Saturday, 21 January 2023.
The gallery is open Mondays (14h00 – 17h00), Tuesdays to Fridays (08h00 – 17h00) and Saturdays (09h00 – 14h00).