This photo taken with a mobile phone shows visitors viewing artworks at an exhibition dedicated to young cancer patients in Windhoek, Namibia, on Oct. 13, 2023. (Photo by Ndalimpinga Iita/Xinhua)
An exhibition dedicated to young cancer patients opened at the Project Room gallery in the Namibian capital of Windhoek on Friday evening.
WINDHOEK, Oct. 15 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition dedicated to young cancer patients opened at the Project Room gallery in the Namibian capital of Windhoek on Friday evening.
The exhibition, titled "The Moment," features 73 artworks of water-based oil paint, acrylic, and regular painting created and donated by students at the Barbara Bohlke Art School in Windhoek.
According to Barbara Bohlke, founder of the art school, the idea for the exhibition was from a desire to make a difference in the lives of young cancer patients. "Each piece radiates positivity and resilience, and will generate funds to offer upkeep to the cancer battle."
This photo taken with a mobile phone shows a visitor taking photos of artworks at an exhibition dedicated to young cancer patients in Windhoek, Namibia, on Oct. 13, 2023. (Photo by Ndalimpinga Iita/Xinhua)
The exhibition encourages visitors to contribute to the cause of fighting cancer by buying artworks. All exhibition proceeds support young cancer patients at the AB May Cancer Care Center at the Windhoek State Hospital. Each artwork is priced at 450 Namibian dollars (about 30 U.S. dollars).
For artists like Talita Vermaak, who has been with the art school for five years, "The Moment" is more than just an exhibition. According to her, the artists have poured their hearts into each piece, capturing the essence of hope and the beauty of life.
"It is also a symbol of hope and resilience. Through the power of art, we can make a difference in the lives of young cancer patients, showing them that they are not alone in their fight," Vermaak said.
This photo taken with a mobile phone shows visitors viewing artworks at an exhibition dedicated to young cancer patients in Windhoek, Namibia, on Oct. 13, 2023. (Photo by Ndalimpinga Iita/Xinhua)
Melody Chipeio, a medical doctor at the AB May Cancer Care Center, said childhood cancer remains a pressing health concern in Namibia, affecting young people who often have to be hospitalized for more extended periods. The center receives about 20 to 80 cancer patients per day and hospitalizes about 10 young people, diagnosed mainly with leukemia and lymphomas, among others.
"The young cancer patients and their families endure many challenges as they battle the disease," Chipeio said. "The funds will go a long way in making a difference in the lives of patients who often miss school and stages of life while in hospital."
The exhibition will run until Oct. 21. ■
