Notes ’n Strokes-Ditsala hits Gabz

Staff Writer | Monday February 2, 2026 06:00

The event by Phooko, commonly referred to as the Music Painter, will feature talented multi-media artist, Moratiwa Molema and the duo is set to ignite Gaborone’s creative scene with a groundbreaking multidisciplinary fusion show. Additionally, the event will feature New Moon Ensemble and Dancers performing in a powerful cross-border cultural exchange. The set of artists, different in their trade, are curating a week-long residency and showcase designed to bridge the gap between fine art, live sound, and movement.

This initiative is not merely an exhibition; it is a high-octane fusion of Botswana’s most elite creative minds. Phooko will also conduct workshops with artists from Botswana’s arts hub, the Thapong Visual Arts Centre, courtesy of Reginald Bakwena. Notes ‘n Strokes will move beyond the traditional gallery space with a focus on deep collaboration. Phooko and Molema have picked a collective of Botswana’s most innovative musicians, dancers, photographers, and visual artists to participate in a series of immersive workshops and live jam sessions. The project explores the concept of Ditsala (Friends/Connections), where melodies influence brushstrokes, and the flash of a photographer’s lens captures the fluid motion of dancers and painters working in unison. “Our goal is to create a synergy where the canvas, the vibrant and engaging colours of stage performances and the audience become one,” Phooko said in a statement. “By collaborating with Molema and the incredible talent here in Botswana, we are creating a multidisciplinary environment where art isn’t just observed, it is lived.

Botswana is currently experiencing a dynamic cultural renaissance. This project is designed to align with and amplify the incredible work already being led by local practitioners.” Phooko said We are building a sustainable creative bridge that celebrates African excellence and since this project has the support of Goethe-Institut, under the Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture – Sub-Saharan Component. We have intentions of engaging more with the Institute to push it outside the borders of the continent ” Phooko said the week-long program (From March 1–7) will serve as a professional launch pad and a creative laboratory where participants will engage in. “We will also be collaborating with professional artists from Botswana’s creative jewel, Thapong Visual Art Centre,” he added. The collaborative workshops will explore the intersection of visual art and live performance and professional mentorship. There will be discussions on intellectual property, international stagecraft, and navigating the global art market. The grand finale will be marked by an art exhibition and live performance held at Molapo Theatre. Notes ’n Strokes – Ditsala is described as more than an arts program, but a celebration of the creative economy. By pairing Phooko’s internationally recognised “Music Painting” technique with Botswana’s top-tier photographer and performers, the project ensures that local talent is prepared for the highest level of the international spotlight.