ART27 residency artist unveils new wildlife collection ahead of gallery opening

The collection, which reflects Jacobs’evolving artistic vision and deep appreciation for African cultural heritage, features six acrylic-on-canvas paintings celebrating the vibrancy, beauty and majesty of African wildlife, alongside six large-scale and dynamic works produced during her studio residency.

The new works are expected to form part of the exhibition marking the opening of the gallery, an initiative that seeks to provide artists with a dedicated platform to create, exhibit and engage with wider audiences.

Speaking ahead of the opening, Jacobs expressed excitement about the milestone, describing it as a long-awaited achievement that reflects the dedication and commitment behind the development of the gallery. 

“I am thrilled for the grand opening of the gallery, a long-awaited milestone that reflects Ferenc Donderer’s tireless dedication. I fully support this initiative and look forward to the journey ahead,” she said. 

For Jacobs, however, the significance of the gallery extends beyond the exhibition of artworks. She believes the new space has the potential to shine a stronger spotlight on The Gambia’s creative sector and provide local artists with opportunities to gain greater visibility. 

“My expectation is that this opening will shine a light on the incredible creativity and rich artistic talent in The Gambia, giving local artists the visibility and platform they truly deserve,” she said.

Jacobs added that she was proud to support the initiative and excited about what it could mean for the country’s growing arts scene. 

Her journey with ART27 began after she started looking for a collaborative art hub near her residence in Gunjur. A chance introduction to Christina Pearson, another member of the ART27 Artist Group, eventually connected her with Ferenc Donderer. 

The connection developed into a shared creative vision, with Jacobs becoming increasingly involved in supporting the initiative. She even sourced art materials from the Canary Islands to contribute to the development of the artistic project. 

When Donderer subsequently showed the premises intended for the gallery to her, Jacobs said she immediately recognised its potential to become a vibrant creative hub for artists and art enthusiasts.

As preparations continue for the opening, Jacobs is also encouraging fellow ART27 members to embrace collaboration and collective responsibility. 

“By supporting one another and bringing our best energy to the launch, we can show locals and tourists alike the depth of creative talent in our community and maximise this long-awaited achievement,” she said. 

Her newly completed collection is expected to add an important dimension to the gallery’s opening, particularly through its focus on African wildlife and contemporary artistic expression. 

The six wildlife paintings explore the beauty and majesty of Africa’s natural heritage, while the larger residency works demonstrate Jacobs’experimentation and artistic development during her time at ART27. 

The opening of ART27 Gallery therefore represents more than the launch of another exhibition space. For participating artists, it offers a permanent platform through which they can create, exhibit their work, exchange ideas and connect with both local and international audiences. 

Jacobs described the development as a testament to resilience, collaboration and vision, saying it could signal a new chapter for Gambian artists.

With artists such as Jacobs contributing new work to the programme, ART27 is positioning itself as a space where creativity, cultural heritage and contemporary expression can converge, while helping to strengthen the visibility of The Gambia’s artistic community.