25 Mar 2018

More often than not, many people prefer to take the well-trodden path mainly because the results are easily predictable. However, this has not been the case with 22-year-old Thabang Koogotsitse, who has chosen to pursue a genre of painting referred to as Hyperrealism.

Not many have pursued this genre as it is described as the most technically challenging art form. It requires much art skill, such that the finished artistic impression or drawing often resembles a high resolution picture.

To attest this, the Moshupa-born artist creates drawings that will trick one’s eye to believe they are looking at an original picture but not a drawing.

He said drawing pictures comes from deep within explaining that there was something in his soul that brings him to draw specific subjects, whether they are drawings of people or a beautiful gift from nature.

“My art work has allowed me to become acquainted with many of my subjects and their stories, allowing me to speak with people that I wouldn’t meet on a regular basis,” he explained.

He credited his work as being unique from those of other artists saying his drawings are done by pencil while other artists prefer using different materials such as coloured pencils, graphite or charcoal.

Inspired by the 21-year-old Ghanaian artist, Jeffery Appliatu, who is also a hyperrealist artist, Koogotsitse said he intended to take his artwork outside the country, teach other upcoming artists and make exhibitions as part of his goals.

He said his late teacher, Lodi Sebeo seriousness had been able to make a difference in his life inspiring him to explore hyperrealist artwork.

However, the upcoming artist said his recognition rose after a well-known radio presenter, Khumo Kgwaadira posted some of his artwork on her Facebook page that has 33 000 followers.

“As an upcoming artist, you need to create great artwork, this is where it all starts and without good work you cannot expect a successful career in business,” the young artist said.

Despite still being a novice in the industry, he strongly believes that his voice gets stronger with each new piece of artwork he makes.

He said in the arts industry, one had to be clear about what it was that they were making adding that, “once you understand your own work and what you have to offer it is time to start finding the right market for it.”

He advised other artists to work hard and come up with creative and unique ideas to make their drawings more interesting.

With a smile on his face Koogotsitse, said his future endeavours included showcasing his artwork in various places across Botswana. ENDS