Protea Hotel hosts an intimate art exhibition
Protea Hotel by Marriott Gaborone Masa Square recently played host to an art exhibition that was, to put it mildly, a revelation. What was originally planned for the hotel’s piazza was moved indoors due to an unseasonable blustery day, but it was a blessing in disguise, as attendees were treated to a cozy and intimate affair.
It was a brotherhood of brushes; the event showcased the magnificent works of legendary artist Wilson Ngoni, who served as a mentor to two rising stars, Prince Tom and Ronald Kegomoditswe (Ron De Artist). The hotel truly went the extra mile to support local talent, giving them a platform to shine like a diamond and get their art out into the world.
The conference center was transformed into a gallery, with each artist curating their own space. It was a visual feast, with artworks of all sizes and colors, from bright as a button to more muted tones.
While conversations buzzed in the background, art lovers drank in the beauty of the pieces. Wilson Ngoni took center stage, sharing his journey and offering a lecture on life as an artist in Botswana.
He was not pulling any punches as he spoke about the difficulties of selling art locally. He made it clear that while food budgets are a given, art is often seen as an unnecessary luxury, a truth that is a hard pill to swallow for many in the creative industry.
Despite the challenges, the works on display were nothing short of out of this world. The passion and dedication of these artists were evident in every stroke. Ron De Artist’s pieces, with their vibrant colors and focus on faces and animals, were a true pop of color and left a lasting impression.
He even admitted to having a soft spot for orange, a detail he was unaware of until it was pointed out. Ngoni’s art, on the other hand, was a trip down memory lane, depicting the traditional life of the Batswana people with familiar items like matshego, mmidi (maize), dinawa (beans), and a pitsana ya setswana (traditional cooking pot). His work was a testament to his roots, a tribute to the self-sufficient nature of the Batswana.
As the day progressed, the atmosphere was one of celebration. Guests sipped on beverages and rubbed shoulders with the artists, sharing in the collective appreciation of art. The cameras were out in full force, capturing every moment and preserving the magic of the day.
It was a beautiful thing to witness, a true show of support for local artists. The turnout was incredible, and by all accounts, the event was a huge success. Protea Hotel and these talented artists knocked it out of the park, proving that with the right support, local art can not only thrive but also make a significant impact.
