Enhance art to generate jobs - World Bank Director

The Director of Operations at World Bank Cameroon, Gregor Binkert, has said any work of art should be able to generate jobs and help enhance a country’s visibility.

He made the remark on Thursday, June 26, 2014, during the 4th edition of the open art exhibition entitled “Cameroon: A Contemporary Vision”, organised by World Bank Cameroon in partnership with the Hilton Hotel. Speaking during the open art event, Binkert said the exhibition is aimed at promoting Cameroon Art which, to him, is one of the most amazing in Africa.

“Cameroon Art is rich in colour and emotion and helps people to see and discover a unique universe, an initiative which the World Bank wants to encourage”, he said that by organising the event, Gregor Binkert said the World Bank hopes to connect people by being a catalyst and partner for development through art.

The open art exhibition featured paintings, drawings, pictures and sculptures of eight artists; Boris Nzebo, Herve Yamguen, Louis Epee, Ginette Daleu, Herve Youmbi, Justine Gaga, Emile Youmbi and a 6 year old Erika Sjetnan-Day.

According to Herve Yamguen, one of the artists, the main theme of his work centres on human beings and their link with nature. “By producing a work of art,

I wish to create a vision for a common future by showcasing the unique beauty, creativity, and challenges of Cameroon” he said. For Louis Epee, touching the heart and soul of his audience through colourful and fresh pictures is what inspired him.

This year’s exhibition of contemporary Cameroonian art did not only highlight the rich history of modern artistic practices in Cameroon, but also revealed the potency of images and ideas to shape the lives of people, communities and societies.