- November 2021
Artistic Bale
Kenneth BAle
State of Emergency Solo Exhibition
Artist: Kenneth Bale
People all around the world, including most of the members of the global artist community, are continuing to live in self-isolation or under stringent lockdown restrictions as the pandemic progresses.<br>While working alone may suit some creatives, others thrive on intimate connection and visual inspiration from beyond their local environment.
Many artists have had to look internally for inspiration due to a lack of direct human connection and restricted movement. The creative reaction to the coronavirus pandemic has been astounding, whether it means diving into the back catalogs of their memories or creating new and wholly imagined worlds and landscapes.
Due to isolation, the pandemic has driven everyone into a period of reflection, whether desired or not. It’s not the worst place to be as an artist since it happens naturally when I create something. Staying at home and losing yourself in a work of art is pure happiness. Nothing compares. The uneasiness stems from the inability to take daily breaks to view and engage with the outside world. The plethora of small things on the outside provide as much-needed creative sparks for my work. The list of sources of inspiration is endless: a humorous and unusual overheard conversation, an incredibly beautiful hand-painted sign on a building, a defiant flower pushing through the concrete. Right now, the only thing I have to go on are my memories of these events. Yet, having a greater appreciation for everything around me is wonderful, and I am grateful for that. “A first solo exhibition is a milestone for most artists — exhibitions are like credentials or accomplishments on an artist’s CV,” said Kenneth Bale as he spoke to Artify Botswana.
"The essence of any great achievement is to believe in your purpose"
NT: Take us through your journey with the solo art exhibition?
Kenneth: I decided to come up with this exhibition to showcase my collection of works I created during the isolation period and countless state of emergencies. Because of COVID-19, Many artists have had to look internally for inspiration due to a lack of direct human connection and restricted movement. The creative reaction to the coronavirus pandemic has been astounding, whether it means diving into the back catalogs of their memories or creating new and wholly imagined worlds and landscapes.
Due to isolation, the pandemic has driven me into a period of reflection, whether desired or not. It’s not the worst place to be as an artist since it happens naturally when I create something. Staying at home and losing yourself in a work of art is pure happiness. Nothing compares. The uneasiness stems from the inability to take daily breaks to view and engage with the outside world. The plethora of small things on the outside provide as much-needed creative sparks for my work. The list of sources of inspiration is endless: a humorous and unusual overheard conversation, an incredibly beautiful hand-painted sign on a building, a defiant flower pushing through the concrete. Right now, the only thing I have to go on are my memories of these events. Yet, having a greater appreciation for everything around me is wonderful, and I am grateful for that. A first solo exhibition is a milestone for me and for most artists — exhibitions are like credentials or accomplishments on an artist’s CV, so I am really proud of what I accomplished.
NT: How was the reception?
Kenneth: Around a 100 people thronged Gaborone Club to see the exhibition, I was totally moved by the people who came and enjoyed this moment with me. The mood was amazing, with music and food to go with the art. I am proud of what I accomplished.
NT: What is your all time artist’s quote?
Kenneth: ” The essence of any great achievement is to believe in your purpose, in my case it’s a believe that comes from the heart.”
NT: What are your interests besides Art?
Kenneth: I am an Architect by profession and currently looking to further my studies and become a civil engineer. Both of these fields allow me to draw inspiration from my creative side and art blends well with them so well.
NT: Any exciting events coming soon?
Kenneth: Yes, my art will be featuring at this year’s G.I.M.C champagne picnic event on Saturday 4th December.
NT: Has Artify Botswana been fruitful in your journey as an artist?
Kenneth: 100%. I have sold on one of my artworks as a print to a couple in Leon, France after they saw my artworks. I believe this platform will ultimately bring better opportunities to local artists and I am happy to be a part of the movement.
