FNB Launches Visual Arts Competition in Collaboration with Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts
First National Bank (FNB) has initiated a visual arts competition in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts, marking its 15th-year anniversary with a celebration of Zambia’s cultural heritage.
Announced 9th April at the Visual Arts Council (VAC) in Lusaka, the competition seeks to underscore the positive societal influence of Zambia’s cultural legacy in honor of the nation’s 60th Independence anniversary.
The launch event, officiated by Fumba Chama, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, saw enthusiastic participation from artists across the country.
Speaking on behalf of Hon. Elvis Nkandu, MP, Mr. Chama emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting partnerships that invest in the arts sector, citing its potential for job creation and improved livelihoods as outlined in the Eighth National Development Plan.
Mr. Chama urged private sector entities to follow FNB’s lead in collaborating with the Ministry and VAC to promote and develop visual arts.
He emphasized the ministry’s mandate to foster an enabling environment for creatives to thrive and contribute to economic development, in alignment with the National Arts Policy.
Kasali Mwaba Kaingu, Head of Strategic Marketing and Communications at FNB, elaborated on the competition’s mechanics. Running from April 9th to May 9th, 2024, the competition invites artists aged 16 and above to submit 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional art pieces reflecting Zambia’s cultural heritage.
A panel of judges will shortlist 50 entries based on professional and transparent adjudication, with the finalists given the opportunity to showcase their work at an exhibition hosted at the Henry Tayali Art Gallery.
Highlighting the substantial prizes at stake, Ms. Kaingu announced that the top three entries will receive K60,000, K50,000, and K40,000 for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place respectively. Moreover, the winning pieces will be displayed at the new FNB Head Office, amplifying the exposure for the talented artists.
The announcement of the 50 nominees is scheduled for May 18th, 2024, with the winners set to be unveiled on May 31st, 2024.
