The upcoming exhibition Echoes of Resistance: The Power of My Voice presents a compelling intersection of art and activism through the powerful work of Ina-Maria Shikongo. A climate justice advocate, artist, and educator, Ina-Maria’s life and work are testaments to the profound potential of creativity to inspire social and environmental change. Born as a refugee in Angola and now a proud Namibian, her journey from displacement to empowerment has deeply influenced her artistic narrative. This exhibition delves into themes of environmental justice, the socio-economic impacts of climate change, and the urgency for systemic reform.
Shikongo's work is not just a visual experience but a call to action. Her art goes beyond aesthetics, serving as a medium for storytelling and a platform for marginalized voices. From textile banners to mixed-media installations, her creations reflect her lived experiences, struggles, and hopes for a more equitable future. As Ina-Maria articulates in her artist statement, "My art is not separate from my activism—it is a manifestation of it, a call to action, a catalyst for transformation." Each piece in this exhibition embodies a powerful message, inviting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and encouraging them to be agents of change.
The exhibition's thematic approach is anchored in protest and solution banners, a visual dialogue between resistance and resolution. For Ina-Maria, these banners are more than mere objects; they are extensions of her activism. However, the banners are not solely in protest and about resistance. They also highlight community-driven solutions, in this way, the exhibition offers a balanced narrative of both dissent and hope.
Ina-Maria’s journey as an artist and activist has been marked by her involvement in global and grassroots movements. From participating in international events like COP26 and COP29 to contributing to "The Climate Book" by Greta Thunberg, her work has consistently focused on amplifying the voices of those marginalized in the global climate conversation. She began creating protest banners in 2021, using recycled textiles and materials as a statement on sustainability. Through these creations, she transforms what others discard into powerful expressions of resistance and hope.
Echoes of Resistance: The Power of My Voice also challenges prevailing notions of development and resource exploitation. Ina-Maria urges viewers to reflect on the socio-economic implications of Namibia's recent oil discovery. She raises critical questions about who truly benefits from these resources: "Why do we measure development and success using ideologies that don’t reflect the realities of many African communities? Yes, Namibia found oil—but will a car guard in Windhoek or a nurse in Gibeon or Tsandi see any of that wealth?
By referencing historical and contemporary case studies from countries like Nigeria, Angola, Mozambique, and Libya, the exhibition provides a sobering reminder of the potential pitfalls of resource extraction without equitable governance. Ina-Maria's work urges Namibia and other nations to learn from these examples and prioritize sustainable and inclusive development.
Ina-Maria’s latest collection of work invites viewers not just to observe but to engage, reflect, and act. It challenges us to reconsider our understanding of art and activism, to see them not as separate entities but as interconnected forces for positive change. In a time of global crises, Shikongo’s work is a beacon of resistance and a reminder that creativity can be a powerful tool for justice and transformation. This exhibition is not just about viewing art; it is about engaging with the narratives behind it and being inspired to make a difference.
Echoes of Resistance: The Power of My Voice opens at The Project Room on Friday 18 October 2024 and will be on show until Saturday 9 November 2024.
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