Kajala Kalahari Art @ !Khwa ttu
During the winter of 2025, fourteen San artists from across southern Africa came together in a pop-up art studio in the South African Kalahari. Over nine weeks, !Xun, Khwe, Ju/'hoan and ǂKhomani artists explored new techniques, developed their personal styles, and shared their stories through art.
The group, from Platfontein near Kimberley, included Rubeni Hamukwaya, Madrena Kasanga, Andry Kashivi and Kunjanda Shikamo. Later, ǂKhomani San artists joined: Oushé (Arrie Raats), Patat van Wyk, Honeyboy (Hans) Witbooi, Willem (Ystervark) Bosman and Jakes Jacobs.
From Namibia, ǁUce ǂOma, ǁAo Piet Skoen, Elwiliene Kamta, Piet Tjiky and Isak Lucas travelled south, following the dry Black Nossob river to the studio.
The project did not involve formal lessons. Instead, after initial experimentation with materials, artists were individually guided according to their skills and interests.
The focus was on developing personal styles and exploring themes most meaningful to each individual. Some wrestled with translating their sharp observational skills from three-dimensional life to two-dimensional surfaces, while others embraced the freedom of colour and form – transforming oral storytelling into powerful visual expression.
This nine-week gathering offered a rare chance for San artists from different regions to meet, create and share. It highlighted both the challenges and the creative vitality within San communities, while they explored the possibilities of contemporary art.
The paintings of the exhibition are available for sale, on behalf of the artists. Some may still be available when you read this, email Magdalena if you are interested in owning a beautiful artwork which also supports a San artist.
