Dear Nafasi friends,
As the COVID-19 virus continues to spread, I want to take this opportunity to update you on Nafasi’s plan for facing this unprecedented situation. Some of Nafasi’s core values — bravery, solidarity, compassion and creativity — will guide us in these challenging times as they do in good ones.
Nafasi Art Space is about bringing people together in artistic community. So concern for the health and safety of that community is our number one priority. Therefore, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the upcoming public events we had planned for this week and next. We are also postponing upcoming international artist residencies.
We have made this decision not out of fear or panic, but out of love and solidarity for the most vulnerable members of society. According to the best scientific analysis and data, containing the virus is possible if people work together and abide by strict quarantine rules, especially before too many people fall ill and the health system is overburdened.
Many of the Tanzanian artists we work with are also experiencing cancellations of the shows, exhibitions, and exchanges on which their livelihoods and craft depend, so we ask you to please help support artists during these difficult times. We also gratefully accept donations that will help us to continue to provide support and services to artists. You can visit our GlobalGiving page here: http://goto.gg/42745
In the meantime, we will be searching for innovative ways to continue to inspire people and share great art with you. This is a great time to check out Nafasi’s online galleries! We will continue to stay up to date with all of the latest news and scientific and public health updates and make decisions accordingly.
Please stay safe and healthy, find new ways to support and engage in the arts, and look out for one another.
In solidarity,
Rebecca + The Nafasi Team