Yebo Art Gallery is pleased to announce that one of our represented artists, Nathi Tembe has been chosen as Eswatini’s representative for the Leipzig International Program in Germany from November 2023 to January 2024. Two other artists, Sobukwe Thulasizwe Mapefane and Thalente Khomo from Lesotho and South respectively were also chosen to be part of this program out of a pool of over 700 applicants.
When asked for his thoughts on this landmark achievement, Nathi commented, “being selected to participate in the Leipzig International Program (LIA) has been nothing short of a marvel. This is the kind of event that we, in Eswatini, can only ever hear about. We read about incredible programs and opportunities in other countries so often; we have become disillusioned by the state of art in the kingdom. The LIA program seems to be a beacon alongside institutions like Yebo, which are going against that disillusionment. The program is rooted in its principles, and it carries the weight of multicultural exchange in a manner that is conducive to growth at all levels – be it professional growth and/or personal growth. To be a part of that is an opportunity like no other. I cannot express my excitement nor can I express just how significant this program is – not just for me, but for the arts in Eswatini.
I would like to extend my gratitude to the LIA program managers and coodinators, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, and Yebo Art Gallery for putting this opportunity forward, and for expanding its reach to countries like Eswatini. This is the first of its kind, and hopefully the first of many.”
Yebo is proud to have this artist continue their artistic growth and develop their practice through this fellowship. We would also like to extend our thanks to The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Pretoria for opening up this opportunity to artists nation and region-wide.