Art Expeditions into Africa's Oldest Desert
Namibia is one of the few places on earth where the natural environment rules supreme. It is a country where one is able to experience the sense of primeval freedom that is impossible elsewhere.
The Art Expedition will take place in the ancient Namib Desert, about 100km inland from the Skeleton Coast, and approximately 300km to the north-west of the capital, Windhoek. The Namib Desert stretches along the entire west coast of Namibia and continues into Angola to the north, covering an area of about 276,000 square km. “Namib” originates from the indigenous language spoken by the Nama and Damara tribes and means “a bare place”. The diversity of landscapes offered by the Namib has virtually no equal anywhere, sporting fascinating rock formations and spectacular views created by diverse geological incidents over time. Unlike many other desert regions the Namib receives a daily bonanza moisture treatment from the thick coastal mist that drifts inland during night time, creating a viable environment for survival to various peculiar species of fauna and flora. People vary greatly in their response to a desert environment; some speed through it as rapidly as possible and are horrified by the desolation and bizarre forms of life encountered en route. They find the geology grotesque and feel threatened by the unusual landscapes. Others however can delight in its isolation, tranquillity and ever changing pastel shades of the breath taking scenery.
Artists have become addicted to Namibia’s hauntingly beautiful landscapes, peoples and wild life; depicting the vast open spaces and unique shades of light, the intimate detail of ancient geological formations and colours, portraying landscapes showing the very curvature of the planet.
To experience the deafening silence of this unspoilt land with it’s ever changing colours and intensity of light by day, and billions of stars in clear night skies will be etched in your mind forever.
posted by Helena Brandt at 5:00 am
