Phakalane Golf Estate, in partnership with ReCurate art consultancy, unveiled the first event in its new cultural initiative, the Art of Heritage series. The programme officially opened with the inaugural solo exhibition of emerging Botswanan artist Naledi Maifala, titled Little Sparks of Peace. The exhibition runs from 4 December 2025 to 31 January 2026 at the Phakalane Golf Estate Convention Centre.
The launch marks a defining moment in Maifala’s rapidly ascending career. Her first solo showcase in Botswana comes after an exceptional year, highlighted by her win of the 2025 continental ANNA Award in August and impressive sales at the Woordfees Auction in Cape Town in October. She is also preparing to exhibit at the RMB Latitudes Art Fair in Johannesburg in 2026, cementing her status as one of Botswana’s brightest contemporary art talents.
Little Sparks of Peace presents a deeply intimate collection centred on serenity, presence, memory, and gratitude. Drawing from her upbringing and family life in the village, Maifala’s work captures everyday moments, family gatherings at sunset, the warmth of shared meals, cattle moving across open land, and the soothing quiet of early mornings by the fire. These scenes act as what she calls “stimulants of peace,” reminding audiences of the beauty and contentment found in simple daily rituals.
Her signature emphasis on light, especially the golden hues of sunset, adds emotional depth to the collection. She complements this with antique household objects, weathered tables, rustic metal containers, and treasured old items, which symbolize heritage, nostalgia, and the enduring power of memory. Reflecting on her process, Maifala shares: “To love with all you have, to be fully present… feels vital, because these moments soon become memories.”
The exhibition also speaks to her dual upbringing, balancing the rhythm of city life with the grounded calm of the village. This background shapes her warm colour palette, natural textures, and the meditative stillness that defines her artistic voice.
For Phakalane Golf Estate, the Art of Heritage series is a long-term investment in cultural enrichment. The initiative aims to position the Estate as a creative hub, one that supports local artists, engages its community, and expands Botswana’s artistic presence. The Estate described the series as “an invitation to nurture creativity, share success, and amplify Botswana’s creative voice.”
At the opening, Maifala delivered a moving message of gratitude, thanking God, her family, ReCurate, her curator Renee, and the supporters who encouraged her artistic journey. She ended with a reflective quote from Kung Fu Panda: “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift, that’s why it’s called the present.”
Phakalane Golf Estate and ReCurate encourage the public, art lovers, collectors, and media to experience this landmark exhibition on the 3rd floor of the Phakalane Golf Estate Convention Centre.
Administrator