Kgope to mount Unrelated Stories show

GASEBALWE SERETSE
Staff Writer | Wednesday August 18, 2010 00:00

Speaking to Showbiz in an interview yesterday, Kgope challenged local art lovers to come in large numbers to witness the high quality works on display.

'When I started preparing for this exhibition, I was more concerned about the quality of works as opposed to quantity,' Kgope said adding that there will be around 18 'exquisite' pieces on offer. The artist further said that the reason why he called the exhibition Unrelated Stories is because he has come up with new, exciting themes and techniques of international standards. He said unlike other local artists who always prefer to fill exhibition halls with trivial pieces, he has decided it would be more fitting to display few but worldclass pieces.  The outspoken Kgope also said that he would have bittersweet memories of his reign because 'Thapong Visual Arts Centre has reneged on some of the promises' made to him.

He pointed out that while he enjoyed the prize money, he had hoped that the centre would have sent him to residencies outside the country.  He had also hoped that as part of the prize, Thapong would have fully sponsored the exhibition.

'I am not happy because I am struggling to find sponsors for the exhibition,' he lamented. For his part, Thapong coordinator Reginald Bakwena said that they are doing all they can to assist Kgope, whom he said is one of the finest artists Botswana, has ever produced.  'We as Thapong prefer to encourage our artists to be self-reliant that is why we expect Kgope to contribute towards the success of the exhibition,' said Bakwena adding that the centre is happy to present the artist's show.

Bakwena further said that they have already sent out invitations to different people and organisations and that they are determined to make it a huge success.   He said as part of the package, the centre is also working on a catalogue, which should be available after the show. 'I encourage art lovers to attend this exhibition in large numbers as Kgope is going to be showcasing something different,' said Bakwena, adding that he has already seen the works and that every art connoisseur would find them impressive.