The event also celebrated the Hollard Better Futures Award 2026 for artists, a milestone that highlights the vibrant creativity and emerging artistic talent of Mozambique.
In her opening remarks at the Exhibition, which features approximately 121 works of art forming part of the Colecção Crescente, the Secretary of State for Arts and Culture, Matilde Muocha, congratulated the partnership and emphasised the important role this initiative plays in enhancing accessibility to, and appreciation of, national artistic talent.
At the heart of this initiative is the Hollard Better Futures Award 2026 for artists – an annual prize that recognises the best works by the country’s most promising young creatives. Since 2019, Hollard has supported approximately 120 Mozambican artists each year through this initiative, recognising exceptional artistic talent and contributing to the promotion of “Better Futures”.
Yesterday, from the 15 nominated finalists, five artists were selected to receive an international artist residency as part of the award. The winners are: Delmindo Chambal, Orquídio Marrengula, Osvaldo Cuinica, Thandy Winasse and Ventura Mulalene. Previously, three artists were awarded, marking an increase this year to recognise a greater number of talents.
On the occasion, Jéssica Figueiredo, Executive Marketing Director at Hollard Mozambique, announced the creation of a new complementary local artistic development opportunity, to be detailed shortly, through the introduction of an Annual Workshop for 20 artists. Participants will gain access to an international residency featuring renowned art lecturers and previous winners of the Better Futures Award, who will return to share their experiences and support the development of new participants.
Hollard’s support for these initiatives is aligned with the Group’s Shared Value framework. Hollard recognises its role in creating opportunities for individuals to develop their skills, access better employment, and contribute to the country’s development.
The curation of this Exhibition was once again led by Mieke Oldenburg, who presented a carefully selected body of work from both established and emerging artists, showcasing a diversity of media and styles, displayed on MDF panels measuring 18 by 18 centimetres.
Since its first edition in 2011, the Exhibition has gained increasing importance in the country’s cultural landscape, becoming one of the most significant moments in the artistic calendar and the largest showcase of national artistic creativity. Participants range from self-taught artists and young art students from various educational institutions to established names in the national visual arts scene, using a wide variety of techniques and media.
The Colecção Crescente 2026 is now officially open to the public, presenting bold and thought-provoking interpretations deeply rooted in Mozambican identity and expression.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Jéssica Figueiredo – jessicaf@hollard.co.mz
About Colecção Crescente
Colecção Crescente, an initiative by Kulungwana, Association for Cultural Development, aims to empower young artists by providing a platform for collaboration with established creators, fostering creativity and contributing to the sustainability of Mozambique’s vibrant artistic community.
About Hollard Mozambique
Hollard Mozambique, a proud supporter of arts and culture, reaffirms its commitment to nurturing creativity and enabling “Better Futures” for Mozambican artists. As the official sponsor of Colecção Crescente, Hollard Mozambique plays a key role in recognising and promoting exceptional talent within the country’s artistic landscape.
