05 Sep 2013

Thapong Visual Arts Centre recently introduced the 360° visual arts concept, a new form of art exhibition that provides an alternative new concept of art display. The idea is a brain child of three women in the visual arts industry, Kate Kwati, Ivy Radipodi-Mpitjane and Veryan Edwards.

Through the 360° concept, the women artists displayed thematical art works. To further assist art lovers to understand and communicate with the art works, the women then organise what they called the Thapong soirees. Kate Kwati said in an interview that two weeks after each and every 360° exhibition, they will come together to discuss arising topical issues. She said the Thapong soirees target especially the youth, with intent to help them understand the arts industry.

Not only do the soirees focus on discussing art work, they also pick topical issues that affect life and advice on how to tackle life issues that were depicted by the art works. The soirees are also meant to teach the youth about the dangers of substance abuse and assist them in making the right life choices.

Kwati said they intend to rope in some influential youth personalities as guests at the soirees to encourage their peers and share success stories. Thapong will host another 360° art exhibition on Friday, which will also be followed by a soiree. For his part, Thapong Visual Arts Centre coordinator, Reginald Bakwena, said the centre welcomes the soirees concept as it will help Batswana appreciate art even more. 

“The soirees will also assist artists themselves as they will share ideas on how to improve their art works,” he said.  ENDS