For the Next 75 Years

By Martin Amushendje, Chairperson, Namibian Arts Association

When I stepped into the role of Chairperson of the Namibian Arts Association, I felt it was important that we first understand what we had inherited. Before talking about strategy, programmes, or the future, we needed to understand the roots of the organisation and the responsibility that comes with leading it. Over the past year, our board and team have spent time exploring the Association's history, tracing its journey across 75+ years, and reflecting on the role it has played in Namibia's visual arts landscape (an ongoing process). In doing so, one thing became clear so far: we are not simply custodians of a building, a collection, or an institution. We are custodians of a legacy, and we have a responsibility to prepare it for the future.

That process of understanding our roots helped us build a shared vision for where the NAA should go next. Together, we shaped a new Strategic Framework (2025–2027) built around three pillars: Safeguard, Platform, and Professionalise.

Safeguarding remains fundamental to our work, but heritage only becomes meaningful when it is alive and accessible. Through the digitisation of our collections and the development of new programmes such as the Artist Development Programme at Heritage House, we want Namibia's artistic legacy to become a source of inspiration, research, and innovation for today's creators. Our history should not sit behind glass or in storerooms; it should help shape the future of Namibian art.

At the same time, we recognise that talent is not concentrated in one city, nor should opportunity be. Through our programmes, partnerships, and digital platforms, we are working to ensure that artists across Namibia have access to skills development, visibility, networks, and markets. The launch of our new website, open-access Artists' Directory, and updated membership structure is part of that commitment. We want to make it easier for curators, collectors, sponsors, and collaborators from around the world to discover and connect with Namibian artists. Visibility alone is not enough, but it is an important step towards creating sustainable creative livelihoods.

Ultimately, the position we want the NAA to occupy is simple: a trusted platform for artists, a champion for the value of creative work, and a connector across the broader cultural ecosystem. We believe the future of the arts in Namibia is not about producing more talent; we already have that in abundance. It is about building the systems, opportunities, and support structures that allow talented people to build meaningful and sustainable careers. What gives me confidence is that this vision is not mine alone. It is shared by a committed board and dedicated team who have embraced both the responsibility of our history and the opportunity of our future. We took the time to understand our roots, we built a shared vision, and now we are executing together. That is how we honour the last 75+ years of the NAA, while preparing it for the next 75.