The National Art Gallery of Namibia (NAGN) opened its doors to a new solo exhibition by local artist Pedro Vorster, titled Memorabilia, which started yesterday. The exhibition is a powerful blend of oil paintings, photographic prints, and carefully curated personal items.

Vorster, a painter, photographer, and writer, brings more than 20 years of experience to the exhibition. Through Memorabilia, he examines the emotional and symbolic significance of objects and memories that relate to his personal and artistic path.

Vorster explained that the title Memorabilia comes from Latin and refers to objects kept for their connections to memorable people or events. “Every inspired moment during my artistic journey is a magical event and, therefore, my spiritual memorabilia,” he shared.

Displayed in the Upper Gallery of the NAGN, Memorabilia will showcase 33 works. The collection centres on four major themes: people, landscape elements, technology and mystic symbolism. 

Many pieces feature strong figurative elements, some examining the complexities of intimate relationships within the context of gender-based violence. One striking painting by Vorster illustrates a man frozen in the act of giving his bride her lover’s heart, a symbolic scene representing betrayal, revenge and emotional turmoil. 

The image is powerful and haunting, with clear feminist undertones. Some artworks are older pieces that have been reworked, while others are being exhibited publicly for the first time. 

“They all guided my hand and mind and are pivotal in my development as an artist,” he explained. 

Vorster’s deep connection to the Namibian landscape influences his work, drawing inspiration from natural rock formations and hills. He links this to the meaning of his name. 

“‘Pedro’ derives from ‘Petra,’ the Latin word for rock. The first artists in our country painted on rock faces. I explore and try to move beyond this curtain,” he said. 

Besides visual art, he will display three memorabilia items, including a historic fundraising certificate valued at N$1.75 million. These objects aim to demonstrate how certain items gain lasting value and significance over time and through history. 

Vorster has received numerous awards, notably first place at the 2011 Windhoek Bank Triennial in the new media photography category. His works are part of permanent collections such as the NAGN, the Namibian government, and the World Bank in Seattle, USA. Privately, his art is held across collections in Europe and Asia.

The Memorabilia will run until 6 September.

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na