Regional works of art impress

Kgomotso Molelekeng | Friday February 14, 2014 16:06

 

Speaking to Arts & Culture, Botswana Innovation Hub representative Olefhile Chantelle Apadile said they had 20 exhibitors from Botswana, eight from South Africa, one from Namibia and one from Lesotho. Artworks on display included beautiful designs of jewellery and pottery. The sparkling pieces commanded attention from onlookers and potential buyers. Jewellery on display included different designs of necklaces, watches, bracelets, earrings and necklaces, which would undoubtedly appeal to individuals from different walks of life with differing tastes in accessories. One of the exhibitors from South Africa, Small Scale Mining and Beneficiation, had one of the most eye-catching pieces, drawing most admirers.

The company representative, Theresa Tsie, explained that inspiration for the pieces on display was drawn from the rich legacy of indigenous adornment based on traditional skills. The products the company exhibited included Kgabane gold and silver jewellery, and colourful fashion jewellery. Tsie said that Kgabane Jewellery was founded to develop, position and market SA's emerging informal precious metal jewellery craft sector.

'Kgabane, which means Precious, is seen as an important driver of economic growth by alleviating poverty and empowering woman, youth and the disabled primary in rural areas,' she said.

She added that they make the jewellery with almost every kind of material like stones , bones, plastic and nickel.

Another eye-catching display was by a local upcoming company based in Tlokweng, Hevefru. They exhibited drinks made from only fruits and vegetables. They explained that the health drinks, have different flavours.

Gabane Pottery also had beautiful hand made works on display. The pottery manager Martin Kabwe explained that the potters are five women from the village west of Gaborone. The traditional pottery included beautiful decorated pots and calabashes. 'We make these pots with clay soil and decorate them with paint,' said Kabwe.

Another interesting display was by the University of Pretoria, who worked with traditional doctors to make products that protect the skin including sunscreens and lip balms. 'We mix the herbs together with scientific products to make a winning combination good for the skin,' said Cebisa Mabena, a traditional doctor.