Reflecting on Being Here

Art that is not only a something to admire but also acts as a mirror of our social identity in the here and now, is what the StArt Art Gallery’s collections are fast becoming known for. This new Contemporary Art Gallery, StArt @ The Wolfshack, is about to open its second exhibition, titled ‘Being Here’, a group exhibition showcases the works of some of Namibia’s top artists.

Six artists are presenting their take on identity, inquiring on where we are now, while acknowledging the value in self-reflection. Comprising sculptures, paintings, textiles, performance, and mixed media by Fillipus Sheehama, Barbara Bӧhlke, Nashilongweshipwe Mushaandja, Lynette Diergaardt, Ismael Shivute and Elisia Nghidishange. The two Owners and Curators of the Gallery, Gina Figueira and Helen Harris note that Namibian contemporary Art has truly begun to take shape and this reflects the here and now of Namibia.

“All six artists are working with their chosen materials in really interesting ways, pushing themselves and the boundaries of art.”

“The combination of these six artists creates an exhibition that is truly multifaceted, from sculpture to painting, performance to printmaking, used car parts to organic matter, this exhibition really has it all. All six artists are working with their chosen materials in really interesting ways, pushing themselves and the boundaries of art.” Notes Helen.

“What makes this exhibition special is also the way in which it came about and formed. Helen and I started off with one concept and started to identify artists who we thought would be working in this line. However as we approached artists and spoke to them, viewed their artwork, chatted about their process, the concept began to shift and change quite organically. Relationships between artworks and artists emerged in ways that we did not at first expect, which was wonderful to see. This exhibition has really evolved into something completely unique, showcasing very different approaches and voices all in one shared space.” Explains Gina.

“I think in terms of ‘Being Here‘, this concept and exhibition highlights how our present moment, the moment of ‘being here’ is always an interplay between doing and reflecting. Echoing Helen, I think this time of year naturally lends itself to a reflective stage, or at least the beginning of the reflective stage that is the end of one year and beginning of another.”

Talking the importance of Being Here, especially at this time of year, Helen notes “I think that November is an intense time for everyone. The year is not quite over but we are all beginning the process of reflecting on what it has been like. For us, the curators of StArt Art Gallery, this is definitely true. With this being only our second exhibition in this space it’s another chance for us to show people what we stand for and where we think Namibian Art is going. This is why we chose artists whose work is intrinsically linked to this moment in time, reflecting on what ‘has been’ and what ‘is’ right now.” Gina adds, “I think in terms of ‘Being Here‘, this concept and exhibition highlights how our present moment, the moment of ‘being here’ is always an interplay between doing and reflecting. Echoing Helen, I think this time of year naturally lends itself to a reflective stage, or at least the beginning of the reflective stage that is the end of one year and beginning of another.”

“The opening will include a live performance by the artist Nashilongweshipwe Mushaandja whose work is really exciting to see in person.”

The exhibition opens on the 9 November 2017 at 18h00, and once again the team at the StArt Art Gallery are preparing a spectacular opening night. “The opening will include a live performance by the artist Nashilongweshipwe Mushaandja whose work is really exciting to see in person. We will have recorded footage of the performance on exhibition after the opening but nothing quite makes up for the real deal.” Explains Helen.

“Our calendar for the rest of this year and the beginning of next year is very exciting. We definitely are busy. The support from everyone so far has been incredible and encouraging and we hope to keep this momentum going.”

Growing from strength to strength, Gina and Helen explain that since their opening this year, the StArt Art Gallery has received great feedback from Namibia’s Art community and great support. Gina explains, “The Gallery is growing in it’s reach and we are working on our online presence with a website soon to be launched. Speaking to more and more people about it and expanding our network has been an important focus. We are also making contact with more artists and planning ahead with more exhibitions and arts events. Our calendar for the rest of this year and the beginning of next year is very exciting. We definitely are busy. The support from everyone so far has been incredible and encouraging and we hope to keep this momentum going.”

Everyone is welcome to the opening of the ‘Being Here’ exhibition, on the 9th of November 2017 at 18h00. The exhibition will be on display until the 1st of December 2017.

StArt @ The Wolfshack is located in the old Gruner Kranz Complex in Macadam Street, Southern Industrial Area, Windhoek.