03 Apr 2016

Thapong Visual Arts Centre on Friday hosted an exhibition titled Indigenous Spaces by Qaeqhao Maaramele and Danniela Lourenço.

Giving a keynote address when officially opening the exhibition, coordinator of the  centre, Reginald Bakwena said it is an exhibition celebrating Botswana and the work of the two  artists is a depiction of the natural beauty of Botswana and this is the second calendar exhibition of the year at Thapong.

Bakwena said the work of the two artists creates a conversation, blends very well and even compliments each other.

“Qaeqhao uses black and white print whilst Danniela uses paint and their work goes well with each other and we have never had such an amazing work being exhibited at Thapong before,” he said.

He indicated that the work of both artists is very clean, detailed and evokes certain emotions from art lovers.

“The presentation and professionalism you see being exhibited here is top notch and it is something that other artists should work towards attaining,” said Bakwena, further adding that both artists’ works are original.

Bakwena urged other artists to take a cue from both Danniela and Qaeqhao and show the same innovation and commitment these two artists have shown in their work.

“I want to plead with other artists to be innovative, professional and strive to be at the same level if not better than what we are going to see here today.           

We cannot allow sub-standard work to be exhibited here in Thapong and I want those that will exhibit after Danniela and Qaeqhao to maintain the same standard,” he said.

Bakwena further said on April 9, Thapong will host a discussion on Performance Arts and urged artists to come in larger numbers to learn.

“Also, on April 23, Andrew Jones will hold a workshop on landscaping at Thapong and the non-members will have to pay P250 while members of Thapong will part with P200,” he said, adding that it will be weekend classes and will start at 0900 hours.

Further speaking on the artists, Bakwena said the artworks embody the presence and importance of the artists’ indigenous world.

“The birds, animals and places most people do not pay particular attention to. Places that are forgotten, places we pass by without a second glance. People, animals and birds that become part of the landscape and Qaeqhao has taken these to emphasise their emotions and depictions and in a way celebrating the natural beauty of our country,” said Bakwena. Ends