Visual artists register body

Visual artists register body

GABORONE - Botswana visual artists have formed an association, which will act as an umbrella body for the individual artists organisations and for the artists themselves.

The association, which is already in existence, went for the name of the Botswana Visual Artists Association (BOVAA).

The association will be there as a voice of the artists and to give them an opportunity to network and share thoughts, perspectives and ideas as artists.

According to BOVAAs committee treasurer, Ms Keatlaretse Kwati, they felt the need for an association which will be there to advocate for the welfare and interests of the artists.

Ms Kwati noted that with an association like this in place, the Botswana artists will be afforded an opportunity to compete and participate in regional and world activities.

Ms Kwati further said that they wish to see the artists in Botswana further develop and grow.

She said it was upon the artists to take the lead and develop themselves.

She urged all the artists in the country to register with the association and derive some benefits out of their membership thereto.

This association is not for the Gaborone artists; it is for all artists in Botswana who are active as well as everyone who supports their cause, charged Ms Kwati.

Meanwhile, registration for membership is ongoing at the various museums in the regions as well as at the national museum.

The registration fee is P60 together with a donation of P10 which is payable until the launch of the association.

The amount will revert to the original figure after the launch but according to Ms Kwati this does not stop interested members from paying P60 to join as necessary.

The launch of BOVAA is scheduled for April 3 at the national art gallery complete with the exhibitions timed to coincide with the launch.