Windhoek witnessed a convergence of talented local photographers for a show arranged by the Namibian Arts Association, to celebrate the artistry and unravel the photographic tapestry of Namibia.
Jaimee-lee Diergaardt, the Executive Manager of the Namibian Arts Association, underscored the event’s significance in fostering collaboration and understanding within the Namibian photography community.
“With this event we were trying to open up a dialogue between the NAA and creative artists as well as among artists themselves to share experiences as well as share comments and concerns related to the industry,” she said.
She added that art and artists are greatly considered and as a growing institution the NAA further strives to benefit its members and artists through their ever expanding network of connections to stakeholders and fellow institutions with shared interest, within Namibia and outside its borders.
“We do not give funding to artists; what we do is, when we receive calls from the internationals that they want photographers or filmmakers, we then connect them,” she said.
Photographer Liami Hawala shared insights, expressing the event’s importance in bringing together diverse Namibian and Namibia-based photographers.
The gathering provided a platform for discussing industry-related topics, fostering improvement, and creating valuable networking opportunities.
Hawala reflected on her photography journey, emphasizing the evolution of her style from capturing objects and self-portraits to a focus on people, documentary, and environmental photography, a testament to the dynamic nature of the art form.
“My main challenge is the high rates that certain organizations charge to permit photographers to take pictures on their property. I understand that it’s private property, however, these fees are often extra fees that our clients have to pay. For example, I have seen charges up to N$1 000 to have a photoshoot at a restaurant. This limits the venues I can take pictures at,” she said.
Like with any other profession, she is constantly learning. There is a need to acquire the technical expertise in order to executive her artistic vision for certain projects better, but she does not let that limit her creativity. One way she has improved in her photography is by being more intentional about taking pictures regularly. That way she learnt different functions on her camera and she sometimes get better results.
“We need these events so we can network, get to know each other and create a platform where we collaborate and sell our work together,” she said.