Art rights unite project offers studio space, workshops/training, and exhibition/performance platforms, specifically designed for artists from vulnerable groups, specifically women, people with disabilities, and disadvantaged youth. The project raises visibility and provides counter-narratives in mainstream discourse by innovating around the artist driven creative human model.

This project increases cultural rights for artists from vulnerable groups, specifically, they benefit from increased creative production, education, exchange and networks, and platforms for their art to reach the public. Furthermore, the outcome will be strengthened freedom of expression and the visibility of counter-narratives in mainstream society.

NAFSASI successfully achieved its project goals, fostering a vibrant artistic community and empowering marginalized artists through comprehensive education and exhibition opportunities.

Over 11 community groups representing diverse marginalized communities actively participated in discussions about the project space and its goals. The participating artists themselves hailed from various marginalized backgrounds, ensuring the project’s inclusivity from the ground up.

A strong beneficiary network was built, with more than 50 individuals (30 female, 20+ male) including artists, advocates, and administrators joining the group. This group played a crucial role in guiding the program’s execution.

To attract participants, Nafasi utilized two online platforms with a combined following exceeding 13,500. Additionally, over 500 physical posters were distributed. This outreach resulted in 75 applications (25 female, 50 male). After careful consideration, 27 interviews (20 female, 7 male) were conducted, leading to the selection of a diverse and talented group of 14 Student Members (9 female, 5 male).

These 14 Student Members (8 female, 6 male) actively participated in the program. They embarked on a comprehensive journey that included 5 intensive training modules, 10 months of training, 12 months of studio access, 4 public exhibitions, 1 public performance, 40 artistic assignments, and 7 site visits. Notably, 13 student members successfully completed the program.

Mentorship also played a significant role. 8 aspiring photography students received guidance from a renowned professional. All 14 students benefited from extensive mentorship from established professionals in over 5 artistic disciplines throughout the 10-month training period. They also received thorough theoretical training on the conceptual artistic process. Furthermore, the students had the opportunity to interact and learn from a diverse group of over 33 guest speakers, facilitators, and trainers.

The project’s impact went beyond artistic development. It empowered artists from marginalized communities by providing them with unprecedented access to art space, education, exchange opportunities, and exhibition platforms. Throughout the program, selected students became progressively more engaged in artistic production, using their art to explore themes of identity, expression, and rights.

The culmination of the program saw all members successfully participating in five theory masterclasses, nine technical mentorships, six workshops and exchanges, four exhibitions, one public performance, one showcase at the National Museum of Tanzania, and one art conference. Empowered by their newfound confidence and expanded network, several students even submitted their work to other local and international artistic opportunities.

This program instilled immense pride not just in the students, but also in their mentors and administrators. Their newfound confidence and artistic skills will undoubtedly propel them forward, helping them overcome societal limitations.

Looking ahead, NAFASI, through its renovated studio, will continue its mission of empowering artists from marginalized communities by providing them with continued access to art space, education, and exhibition platforms.