20 Jul 2023

To help local artists reach out to the intended market for their masterpieces Leago Mogano, a reputable art dealer has taken the lead by opening an art gallery to address artists’ challenges.

Situated at Molapo Crossing, Art Case Gallery lures shoppers’ attention with its displays of the eye catching locally designed artworks.

 In an interview Mogano said it was time for Batswana artists to be recognized for their rich and artistic talent in international spaces, hence the birth of Art Case Gallery.

“We are passionate about promoting our indigenous art forms and cultural heritage,”he said. “Through our platform, we create opportunities for budding talents to showcase their works and gain international exposure.”

The art dealer was of the notion that it was time for local artists’ work not just to be seen but be experienced by the rest of the world through sales and exhibitions.

“That’s why our gallery is not just a place where artists display their work,” he explained.

 “It’s a place where viewers are immersed in the art, where they can interact with it and feel a connection to the artist and their vision.”

 Mogano, who operates under the name Swervo Visuals confirmed that art collectors and those who love art experience diverse art genres such as painting, sculpture, printmaking and more.

“We have also offered workshops, forums, and lectures on art appreciation, technique, and history. We aim to make art accessible and relatable to our audience,” he said.

He said they were looking forward to welcoming more talented artists into their community.

“We firmly believe that every artist has something special to offer and we are committed to helping them discover and develop their unique voice.”

He said their mission was to nurture creative minds, promote cultural awareness, and contribute to the enrichment of our community and the art scene in Botswana.

“The art case gives people the opportunity to communicate with the painting and in return this can deliver messages of love, peace, and unity.

It can cause us to think critically and challenge our beliefs and attitudes,” he said

One of the artists under Swervo Visuals’s quarter includes Morekolodi Rexx who designed BK Proctor’s footwear which was gifted to President Masisi.

He also said they recently sold Rexx’s painting for P10 000, and the gallery prides itself for  other artist such as Prince Thomp.

Some of other artists whose art was showcased at the Art Case included among others Naledi Mafiala, Topo Mposa, Ronald Kegomoditswe and Katlego Khupe.

Mogano said they understood the struggles of aspiring artists and were there to provide them with a platform where they could freely express themselves and get the recognition they deserved.

“That’s why we are committed to promoting artists who use art to tell stories, address societal issues, and inspire dialogues that can bring about positive change,” he said.

Art Case rent out art pieces for Hotels, Restaurants and Property Agent and he said they were currently helping him out with Talent Agency services with chances of finding better clients and corporate brands to work with them.

Their next plan, he said, was to extend to Maun which he said was a lucrative place for artists because due to influx of tourists in the area.

“The tourists don’t mind spending on the art because its intellectual property and they value that more than anything. I believe Botswana has a lot of talent and I’m willing to share their vision through my platforms.

Art exhibitions are very important because they also help emotion invest the artist work with the people around,” he said. Ends