Chad's cultural sector is at a crossroads, with artist Mawndoé Célestin urging stakeholders to rethink its future. On November 7, 2026, Célestin hosted a press lunch at the Espace Au nom de l'art in Bakara, where he shared his thoughts on the challenges facing Chad's cultural sector. The event was an opportunity for Célestin to engage with media professionals and discuss the state of the art market and economic conditions for artists.
Célestin emphasized that the debate on culture should not be limited to music, but also include other art forms such as painting, sculpture, and comedy. He noted that many Chadian artists struggle to make a living from their art, and that a well-structured market is essential for their success. The artist believes that the ability of artists to finance their communication, organize national tours, and meet their basic needs depends on the vitality of the market.
The artist also highlighted the importance of arts education from a young age. Through his Ateliers de Mawndoé, Célestin aims to introduce children to various forms of artistic expression and encourage them to develop an interest in creation. He believes that a child's relationship with art is formed from an early age, through experiences and the spaces they frequent.
To achieve this vision, the Espace Au nom de l'art offers a welcoming space for various cultural, artistic, and recreational activities. The space provides activities such as karate, dance, and animation for young people. Economically, the space offers team-building, catering, and open mic nights, allowing people who are usually distant from artistic scenes to participate in performances.
Célestin invited media professionals to join a reflection on the future of Chad's cultural ecosystem. He noted that there is currently a dynamic in the artistic community, with creators beginning to understand the need to work on projects. However, this evolution must be accompanied by viable economic models.
The artist emphasized that as long as artists cannot earn sufficient income from their creations, they will struggle to pay other actors who contribute to promoting their work. He called for a collective reflection on the structuring of the art market and economic conditions that would allow artists to make a living from their profession.
The Espace Au nom de l'art aims to provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with the community. By offering a range of activities and services, the space hopes to contribute to the growth of Chad's cultural sector and provide opportunities for artists to develop their careers.
Key points
- Célestin calls for a collective reflection on the structuring of Chad's art market and economic conditions for artists.
- The artist emphasizes the importance of arts education from a young age.
- The Espace Au nom de l'art offers a range of activities and services to support the growth of Chad's cultural sector.
