ART27 launches landmark residency programme to transform Gambia’s Art scene

The initiative, spearheaded by ART27 founder Mr. Ferenc Donderer, widely known as Mr. Ferry, has already brought together four artists who are currently producing a collection of large-scale works for the forthcoming BIG & BOLD Touring Exhibition, scheduled to open in October 2026.

The exhibition, which will run through March 2027 during the country’s peak tourism season, is expected to become one of the most significant visual arts showcases ever staged in The Gambia. It will tour galleries, hotels, beach resorts, institutional buildings and the planned ART27 Museum for Visual Arts, bringing contemporary art to a wider audience than ever before.

Just two months after the residency programme was launched, artists Edrisa Jobe, David Hosie, Anna Isatou Bah and Moulaye Sarr are already immersed in creating twelve large-format artworks each. All works will measure 100 by 140 centimetres, creating a distinctive and powerful visual identity for the exhibition.

To support the artists, Donderer has personally invested D420,000 into the project. The three established artists have each received D120,000, while emerging talent Anna Isatou Bah has been awarded D60,000 as part of an effort to nurture the next generation of Gambian artists.

Donderer described Bah as one of the country’s brightest rising talents and said supporting young creatives remains central to his vision.

“It is a lot of money for her too, but I wanted to bring her with us on this journey. She is working very hard on it,” he said.

The residency programme is not only focused on producing an exhibition but also on creating long-term opportunities for artists. Donderer believes that visual art deserves greater visibility and support in The Gambia and across the region.

“Art has to be seen and artists need our support,” he stated.

At the heart of the initiative is an even bigger dream the establishment of a permanent museum and gallery space that will provide Gambian artists with a home to exhibit their work and engage with both local and international audiences.

According to Donderer, the project is already well advanced. His personal collection of more than 140 paintings will form part of the museum’s foundation, while property has already been secured for the future facility.

“The project is nearly done. I only need to secure the next three years so we can work with peace of mind and make it financially sustainable,” he explained.

Unlike many commercial ventures, the proposed museum is not intended to generate profits. Instead, it aims to become a cultural hub that promotes learning, creativity and artistic appreciation.

Donderer said the facility would serve families, schools, students and aspiring artists by providing access to visual arts education and inspiration.

“It will offer understanding and guidance for visual arts by opening its doors to families, schools, students and future young artists,” he said. “I will be happy if, after the first three years, the project simply pays for itself.”

Preparations for the exhibition and museum project are progressing steadily. Discussions have already begun with key stakeholders, including officials from the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC), while proposals are expected to be presented to government ministries and established organisations later this month.

Donderer emphasised that his engagement with institutions is not an appeal for funding but an invitation to become part of a transformative cultural movement.

“To make it very clear, I am not begging for money,” he said. “It is an exclusive invitation to be part of something great that is already alive.”

He stressed that the ultimate goal is to establish a permanent exhibition space where artists can consistently showcase their work and where visitors, students and young creatives can find inspiration and guidance.

As preparations continue for the BIG & BOLD Touring Exhibition, the ART27 Residency Programme is already being viewed as a significant investment in The Gambia’s creative sector  one that could help elevate local artists, strengthen cultural tourism and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

For many within the arts community, it represents more than an exhibition; it is the beginning of a new chapter for visual arts in The Gambia.