27 Aug 2013

For the local arts to grow, artists need exposure so that they can develop, says local artist, Pramod Kumar. Kumar, an art teacher at Serowe College of Education, had his artworks exhibited at Agora Gallery, New York, art exhibition from July 16 to August 13.

In an interview, Kumar said though it was by chance that he got the invitation online, he just came across the exhibition and was happy that he made it.

He said art was growing in Botswana and it needed more nurturing so that artists could be known internationally. However, Kumar said he was glad that some artists were not just waiting for things to happen, but rather enter competitions such as the President’s Day competitions.

He noted that they also need determination as working artists to develop and grow their talent, adding that they had to stand up and make it happen for themselves. He said he was happy to have been invited because it gave him an opportunity to learn more about the trade, and also offered him the chance to interact with the world’s best artists, share ideas and network.

“I would be lying if I said I have been aiming for this exhibition,” he said. “I am happy that it has happened though. People who have come across my work have given me positive feedback and that alone has been fulfilling.”

A member of the Thapong Visual Arts Centre, Kumar said since he started painting as a youngster, he has always hoped to influence people positively with his work. Kumar earned a degree in Applied Art from Patna College of Art and his MFA from Banaras Hindu University. He came to Botswana in 2004 and has since built a career as an artist. ENDS