08 Jul 2026

Art has always found a way to reinvent itself. From oil on canvas to sculpture, photography to digital design, creative expression continues to evolve as artists push boundaries and challenge the way people see the world around them.

In Botswana, however, one artist is taking that spirit of reinvention a step further, not only in how he creates, but also in what he creates with.

Mokganedi Elisa, professionally known as DenimKing, is a textile and mixed-media artist and fashion designer from Tutume who grew up in Selebi-Phikwe. Where others see a pile of worn-out jeans and discarded clothing, he sees a canvas.

Specialising in transforming discarded garments into works of art, with a particular focus on denim recycling, Elisa has carved out a creative identity that is uniquely his own, blending environmental consciousness with craftsmanship, storytelling and style.

Although he initially trained and worked as a professional welder and fabricator, Elisa’s passion for art never faded. Art was always his favourite subject while growing up. 

Despite pursuing a technical career, he eventually chose to follow his creative calling. Determined to strengthen his artistic foundation, he returned to school to pursue an Associate Degree in Fashion and Textile Design at Limkokwing University, combining his love for fashion, textiles and visual art.

His fascination with denim grew from a desire to turn waste into something meaningful. By transforming old denim garments into artworks, he developed a distinctive artistic identity that merges environmental awareness, craftsmanship and storytelling. 

This innovative approach eventually earned him the name DenimKing.

Starting out, however, was not easy.

“One of the biggest challenges was getting access to jeans, as friends and family did not fully understand what I was trying to achieve at the time. I had limited resources and had to work with what was available,” he said.

Despite the challenges, he remained committed to his vision, and eventually the experiences helped him grow both personally and as a business owner.

Starting with limited resources, Mokganedi built his career through hard work, experimentation and persistence. 

He has participated in numerous exhibitions and competitions, including the Stanbic Festival, Nna le Seabe, Youth Rally and the Nando’s Art Competition, where he consistently secured first and second positions.

In 2023, he achieved a major milestone by winning first place in the National Art Competition in the Mixed Media/Innovative Design category. 

He is also a member of Thapong Visual Arts.

As both an artist and fashion designer, Mokganedi successfully balances the creative and business aspects of his work by integrating artistic expression into fashion and using both disciplines to inspire innovation. 

Through exhibitions, competitions and social media, he continues to share his work with wider audiences while promoting sustainability through art and design.

Mokganedi hopes to expand his reach beyond Botswana by exhibiting internationally and showcasing the country’s creative talent on the global stage. 

For him, success is about more than recognition; it is about creating meaningful work, inspiring others, promoting sustainable practices and leaving a lasting impact through art and fashion. Ends