The Space Botswana recently celebrated local artistic excellence by awarding Qaeqaho Moses Maraamele and Robinson Morris, known professionally as Rob More with top honours in the second instalment of The No. 1 Art Award held in Maun.
The event attracted both artists and art lovers to a vibrant gathering that underscored the growth of Botswana’s contemporary art scene, particularly in this region.
The award, founded to spotlight and support emerging and established talent, was accompanied by a gallery opening that showcased the winning artists’ works. The evening also featured a special appearance by Odirile Setshwantsho, aka Sick O, a previous recipient of the award. His exhibition included a poignant portrait of Sheila Tlou, the real-life inspiration behind Mma Ramotswe from The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency book series, capturing the grace by which Sheila Tlou was known for.
Qaeqaho Moses Maraamele, born in 1973 in D’kar, Ghanzi District, is a self-taught visual artist and printmaker from a San community. Affectionately known as “Q” Moses, his name “Qãetcao” means “good heart,” a name given to him by his San childhood companions. Moses grew up immersed in the traditions, landscapes, and rhythms of the Kalahari, an experience that continues to shape the heart of his work. His artistic journey began in 1994 when he joined the Kuru Art Project, learning informally by observing the techniques of established artists like Thamae Setshogo, Dada Ogam, and Thamae Gaashe.
His preferred mediums are linocut printmaking and oil painting, with works that portray the hunting, gathering, rituals, and spiritual stories of the Central Kalahari. From storks that symbolize renewal to porcupines that invaded village fields, Moses’s artworks reflect an intimate knowledge of the Kalahari’s flora and fauna. “My focus and interest are in keeping my culture alive so that young people can learn about Bushmen traditions. This also helps to educate the world about our indigenous practices,” he says.
Moses has exhibited his work internationally, including in Australia and New Mexico (2006), Los Angeles (2008), Kenya (2014), and the United Kingdom (2018). In 2010, he held a solo exhibition at the Botswana National Museum and has won multiple President’s Day Art Competition awards. His work is part of several private collections and is actively exhibited through The Space Botswana Art Gallery in Maun. Moses describes his talent as innate and divine: “I could always draw animals. I can just do it. It’s a gift from God.”
Robinson Morris, born in 1987 and popularly known as “Rob More” or “Jah Works,” is a self-taught muralist and painter from Maun. From a young age, he discovered his love for art, which has since become both his livelihood and a way to engage with the community. Known for his vivid murals, canvas paintings, and face painting at local events, Rob has transformed public and private spaces across Maun — from old bus stops and preschools to homes and lodges.
His work is rooted in spirituality and inspired by the belief in Tiro tsa Sedimo or Works of God, which also shaped his artistic name Jah Works. His art reflects the cultural heritage of Botswana, particularly that of Ngamiland. Whether working in oils or acrylics, on walls or children’s faces, he approaches every piece with care, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose. His creative journey entails making art both a livelihood and a legacy.
In a surprise announcement, attendees were told that The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective – The Musical is in early production. Members of the production crew were present at the ceremony, joined by Sir Alexander McCall Smith, the author of the beloved series, as they prepare for a creative retreat in the Okavango Delta.
As The No. 1 Art Award continues to grow alongside The Space Botswana under the leadership of Atang Arnold and Sir Alexander McCall Smith, local artists are increasingly taking centre stage and rising with the cause.
