By Lamin Njie
A young Gambian woman by the name Aji Ndumbeh Jobe, founder of IG Photography Studios, is set to organise the ‘Gambia National Exhibition- The Heritage’, on January 11th, 2025 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo. The theme of the exhibition is ‘Beyond The Lens. ’Showing Africa’s Iconic Culture and History.
Ms. Jobe made this revelation during a meeting she had with Mrs. Cordu L. Jabang-Sengore, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, and Culture, on Thursday 10th October 2024 in Banjul.
She said the idea behind the exhibition is to showcase the beauty of the hidden talents of some of The Gambia’s young artists.
“This exhibition will allow artists to showcase their talents. I am proud to be part of this important mission. The exhibition focuses on three angles:photography, painting, and pencil work,” she stated.
According to her, the exhibition will feature artists from The Gambia and some others from countries in the sub-region; such as Senegal, Mauritania, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria.
Ms. Jobe believes that the exhibition will create an avenue for artists to express themselves, showcase their talents, and sell their products.
“It is also meant to celebrate the resilience and strength of our culture. To foster dialogue and reflection through painting, photography, and pencil art and to raise awareness about the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals,” she further explained.
Ms. Jobe, who is a teacher and a professional photographer, said the event will also provide the opportunity for the young to be empowered and inspire each other as future leaders.
At the end of the meeting, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Cordu L. Jabang-Senghore advised Ms. Jobe to always be in touch with the National Centre for Arts and Culture for guidance, since it is the institution mandated for such.
The PS informed the meeting that Ms Jobe is one of the most promising talents in the Arts and congratulated her for organizing the event.
She commended her to keep up the momentum and assured her of the Ministry’s support.
