The Space Botswana hosted a compelling exhibition by renowned local artist Boifang Samaje, in collaboration with Elephant Havens, titled the Elephant Studies Exhibition in Maun over the weekend.
The event showcased Samaje’s unique artistic exploration of elephants, blending conservation awareness with his distinct artistic style.
Samaje’s inspiration for the exhibition stemmed from an immersive experience with elephants. Reflecting on his time spent observing the majestic creatures, he stated, “For the first time, I spent an enormous amount of time around elephants, learning a lot about them. I had an intimate experience with these creatures. Growing up, we were always taught that elephants are dangerous animals that we should fear because they are capable of severely harming you. But through this journey, I learned to see them in a different light it was a humbling experience that allowed me to see Elephants as beings that are protectors and providers for nature. There is a profound respect I have for these silent but great creatures that I have grown to admire. And looking at them I have learnt to have an opinion about who we are in relation to nature.”
The exhibition featured a variety of Samaje’s works, tracing his growth as an artist from earlier stages of his career to his most recent pieces. Displayed prominently were watercolor depictions of elephants, inspired by his time spent with Elephant Havens Foundation in Maun. Each piece offered a picturesque and vivid portrayal of elephants, capturing their grandeur and grace with remarkable precision. The artworks conveyed not only Samaje’s personal experience but also an effort to promote conservation through art, bringing the beauty of Botswana’s wildlife to the forefront.
Samaje’s passion for art has been evident since his early years. Recalling his childhood, he shared, “the moment I picked up a pencil, I was in Standard 1. I had a tendency to draw, and I would use my textbook covers as a canvas because I couldn’t contain my love for art. Over time, that curiosity turned into something tangible, and I eventually found my voice in the art space.”
Samaje’s most notable achievement is receiving the prestigious No. 1 Art Residency, organised by Sir Alexander McCall Smith, Elephant Havens, and The Space Botswana. This recent residency offered Samaje a two-week stay at Elephant Havens, where he gained valuable insight into the sanctuary’s work with orphaned elephants and the conservation efforts undertaken by the dedicated staff. The residency was created to celebrate artistic excellence and conservation, honoring individuals who demonstrate exceptional creativity and innovation in Maun.
“The Elephant Studies Exhibition is part of my journey as an artist,” Samaje explained. “I want to take my art well beyond the borders of this nation and share the message of the profound beauty we have here in Botswana.”
The exhibition stands as a testament to Samaje’s ability to merge personal experience with broader themes of conservation, reminding viewers of the importance of preserving Botswana’s wildlife. Samaje’s work continues to grow in influence, and his vision of taking his art beyond Botswana’s borders signifies a promising future for the artist.
