String-and-nail artisan gets ready to tackle global programme in Leipzig
Namibian visual artist Ndako Nghipandulwa is packing his bags for his next big adventure – a prestigious three-month programme in Leipzig, Germany.
The programme is hosted by the Leipzig International Art Programme (LIA) in collaboration with the Federal Foreign Office.
The live-in residency, set for August to October, will bring together artists from around the globe to explore collaboration, exchange, and experimentation under the theme ‘Restitution’.
While he’s painted everything from sprawling murals to moody canvases in oil and acrylic, Nghipandulwa is best known for his surreal nail-and-string artworks. One of his most recent work trips out of the country was to exhibit a few pieces at Miami Art Week’s internationally renowned event Art Basel.
He is grateful for these developments in his career.
“I’m excited for the new challenge and the opportunity to experience a place I haven’t been to before,” he says.
Leipzig is revered as a hub of European art history, contemporary galleries, avant-garde music and a culture of experimentation that suits Nghipandulwa’s unique style.
According to LIA, they focus on being a place for experimenting and learning.
“We believe moving outside of our comfort zone leads to new perspectives opening up,” LIA founder Anna-Louise Rolland says in a statement.
Nghipandulwa says he is taking the challenge seriously, and working hard to think of what he’ll create during his stint.
“I don’t have any ideas yet,” he says.
“This is new territory for me and I’m already doing research while I’m at home to start exploring ideas and see what direction I might take.
I’m not sure what I’ll discover or experience in Leipzig that could influence the project, but I’m keeping things fluid for now.
“I’ll let life and the journey shape what I eventually create.”
He believes our country’s own past and present reflect the global conversation on restitution.
“Namibia’s history, particularly the legacy of colonialism and genocide by German forces, closely parallels global conversations around restitution. In terms of the return of cultural artefacts and the broader pursuit of historical justice and healing.”
He says the series often conveys themes of tension, fragility, and interconnectedness.
It’s a topic many still tiptoe around. But through art, these themes become not only visible, but felt, seen and shared, he says.
“It’s always inspiring to engage with artists from different walks of life,” Nghipandulwa says.
“Whether through collaboration or simply conversation, these interactions enhance my craft and leave me feeling re-energised.”
Participants will join LIA from all over the world and will have the opportunity to exhibit their works at the German art centre Leipziger Baumwollspinnerei.
– Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer, and social commentator. Follow her online or email her at annehambuda@gmail.com for more.
