03 Jun 2018

Botswana Society for the Arts (BSA) recently hosted an artists’ workshop dubbed ‘Nthekgeng Arts and Crafts Exhibition’ in Bobonong.

Giving a brief overview of the two-week workshop, programme designer and facilitator, Onika Lekuntwane said the purpose of the initiative was to enhance artists’ professionalism in the creative industry.

She said the workshop was for artists from all backgrounds, especially those who were dedicated and passionate about their work, and it attracted artists from Bobirwa Sub-district, who learned and networked.

Lekuntwane explained that it was also an opportunity for artists to learn professional aspects from the Botswana Society for the Arts team leaders.

She urged artists to promote the traditions and culture of Babirwa through their crafts and art works. She also urged them to utilise the skills and knowledge they gained from the programme wisely to advance their crafts.

Lekuntwane also advised artists to work together and network as well as to promote one another’s crafts.

During the first week, artists were taught how to compose their curriculum vitae and present themselves professionally. Those whose companies were not legally registered were advised to do so. In the second week, artists were introduced to copyright and intellectual property laws on how to protect their artistic work as well as financial literacy, marketing, product pricing and investment.

Artists praised BSA for equipping them with the necessary skills and a chance to exhibit their crafts to the public during the course of the workshop.

One participant, Kabelo Dintwe from Sefhophe commended the organisers, saying the workshop gave him an opportunity to display his sculptures and improve his artistic skills. Dintwe said he eked out a living from sculpting.

Another participant, Gorata Lekopanye of Puseletso Communications said she learnt a lot on copyright and intellectual property, which would help her do things professionally.

For her part, the project coordinator for BSA, Motshidisi Makgalemele expressed gratitude to CIPA for the support and sponsorship of the initiative, which also enhanced professionalism in artists in places like Masunga and Molepolole.

Makgalemele also commended the artists for their cooperation during the workshop and encouraged them to continue to uphold the good behaviour as it was key in business and an important aspect in human relations. Ends