The prestigious Prince Claus Fund has announced the winners of its second Impact Award, celebrating six exceptional cultural practitioners whose work addresses pressing global challenges through art and activism. Among this year’s recipients are Sana Na N’Hada, a renowned filmmaker from Guinea-Bissau, and Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi, also known as crazinisT artisT, a multidisciplinary artivist from Ghana.
Sana Na N’Hada: Chronicling Guinea-Bissau’s Struggles and Triumphs
A pioneer of African cinema, Sana Na N’Hada’s filmography spans over four decades, blending documentary and fiction to illuminate the historical and social complexities of Guinea-Bissau. Trained in Cuba during the late 1960s, Na N’Hada played a pivotal role in establishing the National Film Institute (INCA) upon his return to Guinea-Bissau in 1972. His films, including Xime (1994) and Nome (2023), both selected for the Cannes Film Festival, explore themes of independence, identity, and resilience.
During the tumultuous years of Guinea-Bissau’s military coups, Na N’Hada and collaborator Flora Gomes safeguarded archival footage, digitizing and returning it to their homeland to preserve the country’s cultural legacy. His work extends beyond filmmaking, as seen in his collaboration with Filipa César on the Mediateca Onshore project, a cultural hub dedicated to preserving Guinea-Bissau’s militant cinema and fostering community engagement.
Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi: Redefining Art and Activism in Ghana
Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi, known for her bold performances and advocacy, is a trailblazer in Ghana’s contemporary art scene. Identifying as a transwoman in a society that marginalizes LGBTQIA+ individuals, she uses her body as a medium to challenge societal norms and advocate for human rights. Her performances often incorporate potent symbolism, addressing issues such as gender stereotypes, violence, and social injustice.
Fiatsi’s artistic journey began after leaving her roles as a teacher and pastor to pursue art at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Beyond her performances, she founded the perfocraZe International Artists Residency (pIAR) in Kumasi, creating a safe and inclusive space for artists, particularly those from marginalized communities. Her global recognition and impactful projects have cemented her place as a leading voice in contemporary art and activism.
Global Recognition for Cultural Change-Makers
The Prince Claus Impact Award not only recognizes the remarkable achievements of Sana Na N’Hada and Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi but also celebrates the contributions of four other recipients:
- Mu Cao (China), a self-taught poet and fiction writer documenting queer life and rural experiences.
- Myrlande Constant (Haiti), a visual artist transforming traditional Vodou drapo into intricate, large-scale works.
- Nguyễn Trinh Thi (Vietnam), a filmmaker exploring memory, history, and the legacies of colonialism.
- Rosa Chávez (Guatemala), a poet and activist addressing themes of migration, community, and indigenous identity.
The awards ceremony will take place in December at the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, honoring these visionaries whose work fosters social change and cultural resistance in the face of adversity.
