“I discovered my passion for painting at a very young age, drawing with pencils and creating sketches that brought me immense joy,” he said. “My mother played a crucial role in nurturing this talent, and her influence is deeply embedded in everything I create,” he said. His foundational education includes a National Craft Certificate (NCC) in Painting and Decorating, obtained between 2011 and 2014 from the Selebi-Phikwe Technical College. He later earned a Diploma in Construction Engineering under Architectural Design from the Francistown College of Technical and Vocational Education. Despite his academic training in technical design, Lister remained committed to art, eventually turning professional in 2020. While he initially focused on pencil portraiture, Lister has since moved into abstract painting and canvas printing, a niche he has grown comfortable in. “I usually paint to reach an infinite level of joy,” he explained.
“My work begins with an emotion or idea and evolves into something that speaks deeply to human experience,” he added. Themes of loss and connection are recurring in his work. He views each piece as a medium for storytelling and emotional communication. “Each brushstroke is intentional, and I take my time to ensure that every detail reflects what I’m trying to convey,” he said. “My goal is for each painting to speak to the viewer’s own memories and emotions,” he stated further. Lister’s achievements are beginning to reflect the impact of his work. In December 2023, he held his first-ever solo exhibition at Duck Café Res in Maun. A standout piece from that exhibition was a deeply personal abstract work symbolising the bond with his late mother. “Creating that piece was an emotional journey, and seeing it resonate with so many people was incredibly fulfilling,” he noted.
The year 2024 brought further recognition. In September, he hosted another solo exhibition at the Botswana Craft in Gaborone solidifying his presence beyond Maun and was awarded “Best Artist of the Year” at the Glamour Awards, a career milestone he describes as “humbling.” In addition to these accomplishments, Lister recently opened a stall at the Mall of Maun, which he is in the process of converting into a mini-gallery. The space is part of his vision to create accessible platforms for art engagement in Botswana. His growing popularity online has been pivotal in expanding his audience and clientele. With over 46,000 followers on Facebook and a new presence on TikTok, Lister credits social media for the reach his work now enjoys. “Most of my followers became my customers, leading to the blossoming of my business,” he said. Though he has been featured across various local media platforms, including newspapers and radio stations, Lister remains grounded and focused on long-term growth. “I believe I’m still new in the industry. I have a long way to go and wish to continue striving to be the best artist Botswana has ever had,” said the artist.
He views his journey as one not just of artistic exploration but of service. He has taken part in initiatives to provide school uniforms and supplies to underprivileged children. “The intention is to give young brains a better chance to learn comfortably and be able to fit in, without being hindered due to their lack,” he said. Among his most cherished moments is being invited to give motivational talks to aspiring visual artists. “That, to me, is one of my greatest highlights. It reminds me that the journey is not just about me but about who I can inspire,” he reflected. Looking ahead, Lister hopes to collaborate with artists across the continent and explore new techniques while staying rooted in the emotional honesty that has defined his work. “My goal is to push the boundaries of what I can create, all while staying true to the emotional core that has always driven my art,” he added.
