Art Bio

Oteng Keabetswe (b. 2000) is a multidisciplinary Kalanga artist exploring identity, culture and self-creation through a style that bridges realism, surrealism and geometric abstraction. Raised in Tutume and inspired by cultural contrasts, their work blends vibrant storytelling with personal discovery. He has exhibited at Thapong Art Center, Botswana National Gallery and in the USA.

Initially working with pencils and charcoal, they now experiment with combinations including acrylics, blending realism, geometry, and surrealism into vibrant visual storytelling. Their work invites audiences to reflect on their own identity, culture, and creative journeys.

Their art has been exhibited at Francistown Arts Meeting, Thapong Art Center, Botswana National Gallery, Artcase Gallery, and in a virtual exhibition in the USA.

ART STATEMENT

"Through my art, I invite others to explore their own journeys of identity and cultural understanding. My work is an open dialogue with those on similar paths of understanding oneself and self-creation, encouraging reflection on the influences that shape who we are and how we see the world."

I am a multidisciplinary Kalanga artist driven by an insatiable curiosity about life, identity, and the interconnectedness of our environment. My work is a journey of self-discovery, bridging the cultural contrasts I experienced growing up in a small village of Tutume and later being exposed to the complexities of city life. These experiences shape my art, which explores the themes of identity, culture, and the process of self-creation.

Initially, my creative journey began with pencils and charcoal, but over time, I’ve expanded my practice to include acrylic paint, blending realistic portraits with surreal and abstract elements. I place great emphasis on detail, capturing both the precision of realism and the emotional depth of abstraction. Lately, I have shifted toward geometric shapes and cubistic surrealism, allowing my work to evolve in new directions while retaining a deep connection to my cultural roots.

Through my art, I invite others to explore their own journeys of identity and cultural understanding. My work is an open dialogue with those on similar paths of understanding oneself and self-creation, encouraging reflection on the influences that shape who we are and how we see the world.