Apply now for artists’ retreat
Namdeb, OMDis and StArt Art Gallery announced that applications are now open for the 2022 edition of the Namdeb Artists Retreat.During the course of the event, contemporary Namibian artists from a variety of specialities will respond to the unique environment of Baker’s Bay in the Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) National Park to produce a series of art works that reflect on the conservation and social history of the area.
As part of OMDis’ Art Can Transform project, a retreat was held at Bogenfels in 2021, resulting in 63 original artworks being produced on site which were successfully exhibited in Oranjemund and in Windhoek.
This project laid the groundwork for a truly unique and sought-after experience.
The retreat is now set to become an annual event, not just on the Oranjemund calendar, but also for Namibia.
This year’s retreat runs from 1 to 16 October 2022, with applications closing at 17:00 on Thursday, 25 August.
Applications will be considered from artists working in the following mediums: visual arts (painting, sculpture, installation, printmaking, etc.) performance, creative writing, photography, and videography. Applications will be evaluated primarily on the quality of examples of previous work as well as the motivations given.
Solitary work
The selected artists will be introduced to the area to ensure that they are aware of the sensitive environment, safety issues, and rules and regulations of the area. They will be guided through the historical aspects of the space, the need for conservation and the unique human footprint that has been left on this deserted landscape. The artists will then work together in isolation for a full week and the retreat will close with an exhibition/showcase in Oranjemund of the work produced during that time.
A repeat exhibition will be held in Windhoek in due course.
As seen from the last artists’ retreat, this experience is conducive to creativity and we are certain that the results of this retreat will be interesting and enlightening to many people, both in Namibia and abroad. Through art, complex themes and information can be highlighted, communicated and made accessible to non-expert audiences. This makes art the perfect conduit to spread the messages associated with the Oranjemund and the adjacent national park, of its unique history and significant environmental importance.
For artists seeking more information and who wish to apply for the 2022 Artists’ Retreat, visit https://www.startartgallery.com/namdeb-artists-retreat-2022-bakers-bay/ or contact Helen Harris at [email protected]