Bank of Namibia Launches Shredded Banknote Art Challenge for 35th Anniversary

Bank of Namibia Launches Shredded Banknote Art Challenge for 35th Anniversary. As part of its 35th Anniversary celebrations, the Bank of Namibia (BoN) is inviting local artists to take part in a unique creative initiative that blends finance with art. The “Currency to Canvas” challenge calls on Namibian creatives to submit concept proposals for artworks using shredded banknotes as the primary medium.

The competition is open to artists across the country and encourages bold, thought-provoking concepts that reflect Namibia’s journey of transformation, resilience, and innovation within the financial sector. Artists are invited to reimagine currency not just as a symbol of value, but as a material for storytelling and artistic expression.

Selected submissions will receive cash prizes of N$15,000 for first place, N$10,000 for second, and N$5,000 for third. The final artworks will be displayed during the Bank’s anniversary events, offering national exposure to participating artists.

The deadline to submit concepts is 5 July 2025, and entries should be sent via email to Linus.So-Oabeb@bon.com.na.

The Bank sees this initiative as a celebration of creativity and innovation in a space traditionally dominated by policy and economics. It also serves as an opportunity to engage Namibia’s vibrant creative community in a conversation about the country’s financial evolution.

By transforming decommissioned currency into art, the challenge symbolises how value can be redefined and reimagined—an idea that resonates with broader national goals of empowerment, sustainability, and cultural pride.

Artists are encouraged to explore themes that highlight Namibia’s financial history, social progress, or the changing role of money in society.