Mmegi

Palalani reflects on 366-days art challenge

1
1

After completing his 366-days art challenge, which he embarked on last year, 21-year-old visual artist Kaene Palalani has described the feat as a remarkable journey.

The final-year student at the University of Botswana has successfully completed a 366-day art challenge, creating one artwork each day for an entire year in 2024. He told Arts & Culture that this remarkable journey, which began on January 1, 2024 and concluded on December 31, 2024, highlights his commitment to his craft. He said it also reflects his ability to document both personal and national milestones through art. By completing this challenge, Palalani stated that he joins a distinguished list of artists worldwide who have accomplished such a feat. He said the challenge presented a chance of growth and learning. As a student pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Art and Design, Palalani says he embarked on the challenge to push his creative boundaries and develop his skills. Throughout the year, the artist balanced the demands of his academic studies, art commissions, and personal life, demonstrating impressive dedication and perseverance.

“This challenge was a way for me to grow both as an artist and an individual. It was about showing up every day and creating something meaningful, no matter what challenges I faced,” Palalani said. In addition to exploring personal themes, he said this challenge also presented an opportunity to capture Botswana’s history. Palalani’s artworks also reflect key events in Botswana’s recent history. His pieces commemorate moments such as Letsile Tebogo’s Olympic victory and the country’s change of government, making his collection a visual chronicle of the year’s significant events. To stay accountable and share his journey, Palalani posted each day’s artwork on his Facebook page before midnight. This daily routine not only kept him disciplined but also allowed him to connect with his growing audience, who followed his progress with interest and encouragement. “Sharing my work daily helped me stay on track. The support and feedback from my community were incredibly motivating throughout the challenge,” he explained.

The journey was not without its difficulties. Palalani says he faced challenges such as securing art supplies and balancing his academic responsibilities with the daily commitment to his art. Despite these obstacles, he remained steadfast in his mission to complete the challenge. “There were times when it was tough to keep going, but the challenge taught me resilience and the importance of staying committed,” he shared. Palalani’s artworks covered a wide range of themes, from cultural heritage to abstract concepts. His innovative use of the scribbling technique adds texture and depth to his pieces, making each one a unique expression of his thoughts and experiences. Towards the end of the challenge, Palalani dedicated his art to charity, planning to auction some of his pieces to support local causes. This initiative reflects his belief in using art as a force for good and giving back to the community that supported him throughout the year. “I wanted to use my art to make a positive impact. This is my way of contributing to causes I care about and supporting others through my work,” he stated. Following the challenge, Palalani says he is preparing for an exhibition to showcase all the 366 artworks.

He also plans to continue engaging with the community through workshops and educational sessions, hoping to inspire others with his journey. “Completing this challenge has been an incredible experience. It’s been a year of learning and growth, and I’m excited to continue exploring what I can do with my art,” he reflected. Palalani’s 366-day art challenge is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and passion for art, serving as an inspiration to others and a reminder of the power of perseverance and commitment.

Editor's Comment
UDC's 100 Days: Please deliver your promises!

We duly congratulate them to have ousted the long ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) from power. Prior to taking power from the BDP, the coalition had made several election promises that are credited for influencing change and swaying the people to vote in its favour.The party had made an undertaking, which its leader and President Duma Boko consistently bellowed in his campaign trail. These undertakings were promises that Batswana would be...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up