Entertainment Reporter
IN pursuit of building a more professionalised and sustainable art sector, the Namibian Arts Association (NAA) last week launched an Artist Development Programme (ADP), with funding of N$374,760.00, which will kickstart a pilot programme that will see the funding of artists for their various projects.
The NAA, amongst other things, also launched a newly revamped website, featuring a directory of contemporary Namibian visual artists, as well as a digitised archive under the Arts Association Heritage Trust Collection, featuring artists’ works dating back to 1948, showcasing through its works, paintings and photographs of faces long forgotten, every file a doorway to existences long gone.
Speaking at the launch of the event, M’kariko Amagulu, Director of Arts at the Education Ministry, explained that the safeguarding of the Arts Association Heritage Trust Collection, the launch of the redesigned website and Artists’ Directory, and most importantly, the launch of the Artist Development Programme 2026, demonstrate the Association’s commitment to building a stronger future for Namibian artists.
She added that the theme, “Platform, Safeguard and Professionalise Namibian Art,” could not be more appropriate.
“These three words capture exactly what our artists need. They need platforms where they can exhibit and be seen. They need our heritage to be safeguarded so that future generations understand who we are and where we come from,” Amagulu said.
She added that the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6) recognises the Cultural and Creative Industries as an emerging economic sector with enormous potential to create jobs, stimulate innovation and support entrepreneurship.
Amagulu further added that the Artist Development Programme (ADP) 2026, which is a pilot initiative, represents a new approach to supporting Namibian visual artists.
“Through this programme, selected artists will receive mentorship from experienced practitioners, access to creative workspaces, materials, professional guidance, networking opportunities and exhibition platforms over the next three months. The programme is designed not only to strengthen artistic skills but also to help artists develop sustainable careers,” Amagulu said.
Subject to the availability of funds and compliance with government financial procedures, the Ministry has committed financial support of up to N$374,760.00 for the implementation of the pilot programme. The deadline for applications for the programme is 21 July 2026.
The Namibia Arts Association will lead the implementation of the programme, while the Ministry will provide strategic support and facilitate collaboration through its Regional Arts Officers to broaden participation and strengthen arts development throughout Namibia.
ONGULUMBASHE: One of the archival photographs by prolific Namibian photographer Tony Figueira is featured in the NAA’s digital archive of works dating back to 1948. The picture captures combatants from Ongulumbashe and was taken in 1990.
