06 Apr 2016

Individuals are encouraged to work hard for success and families to support their own and assist whenever they can. 

This kind of gesture builds a sense of ownership and dignity to both the artist and their families and also relieves the government of the burden of supporting the entire nation.

Such is the story of one Boikanyo Matshware, 21, of Modipane, renowned for fine art which he believes he was born with and only had to choose his area of speciality later at school.

He said he is passionate about what he does and has long nurtured his artistic ability back at primary school. 

“I thereafter opted to do art as my practical subject at junior school where I learnt different techniques, elements and principles of art. 

I continued with it to senior school and learnt pencil art which is now my area of speciality,” Matshware explained.

He said art has different medias and that colour and pencil art was tidier, faster and clearer than paint art which he said was congested. 

He said he chose to be unique and intends to brand himself as a pencil artist in the future. 

To enhance his talent, he said he was now studying graphic design, a computerised art course at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. 

He also said he learnt to prioritise as he does art part time so that his studies do not suffer.

He said his parents sponsored him to undertake an entrepreneur development training course at the Local Entrepreneurship Agency, adding that the course has increased his love for business and  would equip him with knowledge of becoming a successful entrepreneur.

Matshware lightens up when he mentions the support of his family. 

He said his father was his greatest fan and mentor as he always stands by him and took him to the Ministry of Youth Sport and Culture to inquire about their aid to youth artists.

Furthermore, he said he has been requested to draw a portrait that depicts the landscape of Modipane which is intended to be autographed by President Lt Gen. Dr  Seretse Khama Ian Khama and would be auctioned. 

He said the proceeds of the portrait were for the construction of the kgotla shelter.

 “The autographed portrait could be the beginning of my success in colour pencil art as it will give me exposure and could bring me more business as well,” Matshwane said.

 He said young people should take advantage of government programmes to better their lives, adding that patience was a trait that young people should adopt in order to succeed in life. 

He also urged parents to embrace their children’s talents as it could turn out to be their source of finance in future. Ends