n 2022, through a competitive application process, these five Namibian artists each received a grant from Africa Prime Initiative (API), the philanthropic arm of US-based video streaming platform Africa Prime. The exhibition will consist of sculptures in welded metal and stone, weavings in plastic and natural fibres and digital art. In celebration of the artists’ works and the generous support of the Africa Prime Initiative, this exhibition will be on show at the FNCC from 11-21 August, with an official opening event on 10 August at 6pm. All are welcome to attend and entrance is free.

Reflecting on her experience Lynette Diergaardt shares:

“With this grant, I have been able to import a weaving loom and can now introduce Namibian fiber artists and fellow crafters to a new body of work in making more refined types of hand-made textiles and fiber art. This grant is a tremendous gift and will not only help my artistic career to flourish, but has helped me regain a part of my training that has been lost to me for 6 years. I’ve always hoped to train future fiber artists on looms like this and this opportunity has now made this possible.”

Africa Prime’s mission is to give a voice to African talent and help authentic African voices take control of the continent’s international narrative. Dr. Yaya Moussa, founder of Africa Prime, said:

“Supporting emerging artists is more than an investment in their talent: it is an investment in the future of Africa’s creative sector which has the potential to play a significant role in development. By promoting the artistic voices of tomorrow, we are also empowering them to shape Africa’s narrative and international perceptions of our continent.”

All of the artists who received grants were able to purchase new equipment that has enabled them to expand and develop their professional practice. Because of this funding both Elisia Nghidishange and Lynette Musukubili were able to produce work for solo exhibitions. Lynette Diergaardt and Kambezunda Ngavee were both able to acquire specialised equipment for stone carving and weaving respectively. Vitjitua Ndjiharine was able to travel for her research and purchase equipment for the production of digital art.

“I am happy and grateful to have received the API grant, it has enabled me to create work for my solo exhibition. The grant has made every step of my creation easier and allowed me to have the greatest exhibition. I am so thankful to the API.” (Elisia Nghidishange)

StArt Art Gallery curator, Helen Harris, reflecting on the process of administering these grants says;

“Working with the artists and witnessing first-hand how these grants have positively impacted their work has been a joyful process. Each artist has purchased equipment that they will be able to use for years to come and even more importantly has been empowered to make work that is a true reflection of their unique perspectives on the world.”

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