Says the artist of his curator: “MotherK’s involvement adds weight and meaning to this celebration.”
GOSEGO MOTSUMI
Visual artist Ron de Artist will mark another milestone in his career with a solo exhibition styled Come and See My Blue at Musa’s Bistro in Gaborone on 14 December.
The theme is also an invitation to art enthusiasts and everyone else to come and see the vivid exploration of emotion, and identity and to experience the transformative power of art through the colour blue.
The body of work represents a decade of Ron’s dedication as a full-time fine artist in Botswana, using blue as a narrative thread that connects the landscapes, stories and emotions that define his journey.
The colour blue
Blue is more than a colour for the artist; it is a symbol of depth, tranquility and transformation. From the serene waters of the Okavango Delta to the expansive skies that stretch over Botswana, Ron’s use of blue reflects the emotions and shared experiences of his audience.
“Blue has become a companion in my journey,” he explained in an interview. “It mirrors my feelings, my growth and the narratives I carry in my art. Through this exhibition, I want viewers to experience the many shades of my story.”
The exhibition will showcase a new collection of 15 to 20 original pieces, offering a fresh perspective on Ron’s evolving artistry. Each work has been carefully crafted to capture the essence of his transformative decade in the world of art.
The journey of Blue
“This exhibition is inspired by my desire to create and share my work with the world,” Ron shared. “It is an extension of my journey, one that blends tradition and innovation.”
Come and See My Blue is a sequel to Ron’s two previous exhibitions, My Blue is to Fly and Beyond My Blue, both held at Duck Café in Maun. Moving the exhibition to Gaborone was a deliberate choice.
Ron explained: “I felt that I owed the metropolis the effect of Blue. This time, Gaborone gets to witness the evolution of my narrative as I explore where Blue will take me next.”
The return of MotherK
Adding depth and structure to the exhibition is curator MotherK Masire, who also curated Ron’s first solo exhibition, The Genesis, in 2016. Having been a mentor and supporter of Ron since his early days, MotherK brings a unique perspective to this milestone celebration.
“The role of an exhibition curator is multifaceted,” said Ron. “They are not just organisers but storytellers and connectors, creating an experience that bridges the gap between art and its audience. MotherK’s involvement adds weight and meaning to this celebration.”