Kgosimodimo: Painting a future of empowerment
Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Monday November 11, 2024 15:21
She is a multifaceted artist whose work speaks to her heart, her community, and her culture. Kgosimodimo has used her innate talent to create a thriving career that bridges the gap between personal expression and professional success. Her story is one of following her instincts, even when it meant turning her back on a formal qualification in favour of a path that fulfilled her creative soul. “I’ve always been gifted with art since I was eight years old,” Kgosimodimo recalls. “That’s when I first noticed my talent, but I didn’t dive into it seriously until I went to varsity. During my spare time, I started drawing, and people began showing interest and were willing to pay for my work. That’s when I realised that this could be something I could do full-time. After graduating, I decided to focus on my art career,” she stated. Born and raised in Molepolole, Kgosimodimo pursued a degree in Motion Picture Medium at AFDA College in Botswana but upon completing her studies, she made a conscious decision to turn her attention to painting. Despite having a formal qualification, she chose the path of an artist when she found herself struggling with unemployment after graduation.
“It wasn’t easy,” she admits, “but I believed my talent could come in handy, and I trusted that the work would eventually speak for itself.” Kgosimodimo runs Gomolemo Kgosimodimo Arts, a successful business that sees her creating stunning portraits, murals, and drawings that resonate with a diverse audience. From high-profile figures to businesses and everyday individuals, Kgosimodimo’s work has found its way into numerous homes and public spaces. “I’ve always wanted my art to be a reflection of my life and the people around me,” Kgosimodimo explains.
“What I paint reflects events that happen around us, as well as the way we as individuals respond to these events. Some of the experiences I’ve had are difficult to put into words, so I use my art to communicate those emotions,” she said. Her pieces are characterised by bold, vibrant colours and a blend of realism with expressionism, allowing her to capture not just the physical likeness of her subjects but their essence as well. She often incorporates elements of Botswana’s rich cultural heritage into her work, ensuring that each piece is a celebration of her roots. “I also incorporate elements of our culture into my work so that people who have never been to Botswana can still learn something about our country through my art,” she adds. From personal commissions to large-scale murals, she has been able to cater to both local and international clients. She emphasises affordability, ensuring that her art is accessible to a broad range of people. “Art is often seen as a luxury, but I make sure my work is within reach of both the lawyer and the layman,” Kgosimodimo says.
One of her most memorable projects was a mural she painted for her former school, AFDA Botswana, now Awil College. “That project stands out because it’s the same school I attended, and they trusted me with the job. It came out beautifully, and it was a great experience to contribute something to the place where I began my creative journey,” Kgosimodimo shares. Another significant project she’s currently working on is an exhibition focused on mental health, where she has gathered a group of women artists to showcase their works and engage in discussions about the challenges of mental well-being. The exhibition, which she has partnered with Artist Connect, aims to inspire women and girls to enter the art space, creating a platform for them to share their voices and experiences. Despite the success, Kgosimodimo’s path has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles she has faced is the societal bias that women, particularly in the arts, often struggle with. “It’s sometimes hard for people to trust women artists, especially before they’ve seen our work. That’s why I created a Facebook page with references to show people what I can do. It’s tough, but I keep pushing,” she says. “Business can also be slow at times, but I’ve learned that the more I market my work, the better things get.” The COVID-19 pandemic also had an unexpected effect on Kgosimodimo’s business. While many industries suffered, the pandemic gave her the space to connect with a wider audience. “When I graduated, I started joining art challenges on social media. I began drawing for 10 days, and people started tagging me. Social media played a huge role in getting my art out there, and that’s when more people started commissioning me for pieces. I actually made a little something during the pandemic,” she recalls. Looking forward, Kgosimodimo is committed to using her platform to uplift and inspire the next generation of artists, especially women. “I want to inspire women and girls to pursue their artistic dreams,” she says.
“The art scene is tough, but there is hope for future generations. More artists are coming out, and if we continue to collaborate and support each other, the creative space in Botswana will grow.” In addition to her projects, Kgosimodimo is passionate about giving back to her community. She teaches free art classes to children, focusing on basic art skills. “It’s part of my mission to make a lasting impact and contribute to the growth of art in our country. I want to leave a mark,” she says. Kgosimodimo’s vision for the future is clear; to continue pushing the boundaries of her art while inspiring others along the way. “I want to keep pushing until my success speaks for itself,” she says.
“The industry is challenging, but I won’t give up. I want to show other women that it’s possible to succeed in this field,” she notes. Through her work, Kgosimodimo has not only built a successful career but has also created a space for her voice to be heard and her story to be told. With every brushstroke, she is painting a future that speaks to the heart of Botswana’s art scene, offering hope, inspiration, and creativity to all who encounter her work.