Eight talented artists from Botswana’s acclaimed Kuru Art Project are set to present their work at the prestigious RMB Latitudes Art Fair, taking place from May 23 to 25 at Shepstone Gardens in Johannesburg, South Africa. The event marks a major milestone for the artists and offers a rare opportunity to spotlight Botswana’s indigenous San creativity on an international platform.
The participation is being facilitated by ReCurate, a curatorial agency based in Gaborone, which is committed to elevating Botswana’s visual arts globally. Renee Eisen-Khonat, founder and director of ReCurate, expressed that the inclusion of the Kuru Art Project at this year’s fair is a meaningful step forward in bringing the voices of Botswana’s indigenous San artists to broader audiences. She highlighted that the fair will feature exhibitors and creators from across the African continent, offering an immersive space for engagement with collectors, curators, and art lovers.
The group will be exhibiting under the theme “Liminal Spaces”, which explores the evolving intersection of tradition and modernity within Botswana’s artistic landscape. The artworks aim to capture the fluid, transitional aspects of identity and culture, presenting a blend of historical depth and contemporary expression.
Each artist brings a unique vision rooted in personal and cultural narratives. Ntcisa Kase, for example, uses intricate oil paintings to portray the flora of the Kalahari veld, reflecting her in-depth knowledge of indigenous plants. Bau Kaashe, who began with embroidery, now crafts works celebrating animals and plants central to San culture. Cgoma Simon transitioned from beadwork to vibrant mixed-media creations that echo her life journey.
Ncaotoe Thama draws inspiration from her late husband, renowned artist Thamae Setshogo, using painting and linocut to convey a powerful connection to the Kalahari. Naledi Maifala’s expressionist style explores themes of stillness and impermanence through serene, nature-inspired compositions. Kutlo Mabua, a self-taught artist, employs ink pointillism and embroidery to reflect on themes of transformation and identity.
Multidisciplinary artist Modisa Motsumi integrates topographical mapping into his work to examine land, ownership, and sovereignty. Meanwhile, Neo Matome engages with gender, culture, and socio-political issues across various mediums, focusing on questions of belonging and identity.
The Kuru Art Project, founded in 1990, has long provided a creative platform for San artists to express their cultural heritage and lived experiences through contemporary art. It has gained regional and international recognition for its role in preserving the traditions of the San people while enabling their artistic growth in new and evolving contexts.
This upcoming exhibition at the RMB Latitudes Art Fair is more than just a showcase of artistic talent—it is a celebration of Botswana’s cultural diversity and a powerful testament to the importance of indigenous voices in the contemporary art scene. Through “Liminal Spaces”, these artists will invite the world to see Botswana’s rich traditions through a fresh, modern lens.
