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For 2021, the Awards’ chosen symbol is a common sight across Namibia’s vast landscapes: the windmill. It is an ingenious adaptation to the country’s arid conditions. The windmill is also a metaphorical representation of Doek’s motto and the wisdom which makes great storytelling possible: hope and optimism in spite of present difficulties.
With strong foundations in Namibia’s soil, history, and heritage, and constantly turning to face any opportunity which comes their way, Namibian literary artists bring the country’s hidden stories to local and global audiences. In sharing their craft, they also archive them for present and future generations.
Designed by Romeo Sinkala, the 2021 concept was built around the following general themes: resilience, perseverance, adaptation, artistic endeavour, dignified and determined struggle despite hardship, sustainability, hope for today, and optimism for tomorrow.
Inspired by this concept, the trophies for the inaugural awards were designed by Attila Giersch, an award-winning Namibian goldsmith and jeweller. The results: a strong, proud metal and wood design that represents Doek’s hopes and ambitions for Namibian literature.
Every ten years, an exhibition of the various awards shall be held to showcase these special pieces of art and the concepts that inspired their creation.