The 2025/2026 Bank Windhoek Triennial is Namibia’s biggest visual art competition, hosted by the National Art Gallery of Namibia (NAGN) in partnership with Bank Windhoek. It’s a major celebration of Namibian creativity and identity, and this year’s theme is:
“Namibian Identity: The Linework of a Country’s Contours and Wealth.”

Here’s the full picture:

🖼️ What It’s About

The Triennial invites artists from across Namibia to explore and express what it means to be Namibian—through painting, sculpture, digital art, mixed media, and more. It’s a platform where bold ideas meet cultural storytelling.

🏆 Prizes & Recognition

• • 1st Prize: N$50,000 + a solo exhibition at NAGN

• • 2nd Prize: N$35,000

• • 3rd Prize: N$25,000
    The top three winners also receive career development support from NAGN.

🌱 Emerging Artists

There’s a special category for youth artists under 35, who will be invited to join NAGN’s Emerging Artists Programme—a great opportunity for mentorship and exposure.

🗓️ Key Dates

• • Applications opened: 20 May 2025

• • Submission deadline: 27 May 2026

• • Exhibition launch: 6 August 2026 at 18h00

🌍 National Reach

To ensure inclusivity, NAGN has partnered with regional art extension offices so artists from all 14 regions can access information and support. These offices also help with the selection process to maintain high standards.

🎨 Why It Matters

This isn’t just a competition—it’s a cultural movement. It gives artists a national stage to reflect Namibia’s past, present, and future through visual storytelling. As Bank Windhoek put it, the Triennial is “a mirror held up to society, reflecting our collective journey with endless possibilities.”

If you’re thinking of entering or just want to support local talent, you can find the application form here