Ramotoana Richard Mokgomme, a true artisan hailing from the serene landscapes of Limpopo, South Africa, found himself captivated by the enchanting world of art at a tender age of five. A humble beginning in the village of Indermark laid the foundation for his artistic odyssey, imbuing him with an innate passion for creative expression.
The bustling city of Johannesburg beckoned Ramotoana in 2009, and with an insatiable hunger to refine his craft, he embarked on a journey of printmaking tutelage at the esteemed Johannesburg Art Gallery. His dedication and unwavering commitment to his art led him to the esteemed Artist Proof Studio in 2016, where he embarked on an immersive four-year course, skillfully fusing the realms of printmaking and fine arts. Graduating with the highest distinction in concept development in 2019, Ramotoana's lithographic prints garnered unprecedented accolades, setting a record for complete sales.
In the resplendent spring of 2020, the art world witnessed the bloom of Ramotoana's creative prowess as he unveiled his first solo exhibition, a mesmerizing spectacle that showcased the depth of his artistic ingenuity.
Beyond the canvas, Ramotoana's visionary spirit manifested itself in the form of Mokgomme in the Studio Pty Ltd and the Rich-Art clothing brand, exemplifying his artistic versatility and entrepreneurial acumen. Collaborating with his studio partner, Mario Soares, he co-founded the illustrious SO & MO Basement Studio, a sanctuary where printmaking thrives as a labor of love.
Ramotoana's artistic muse draws from a rich tapestry of influences, embracing the allure of found objects, the intricacies of identity, and the profound tapestry of South African history. With a masterful command over an array of mediums, including lithography, photography, painting, sculptures, monotype, lino cutting, and printmaking, his art transcends conventional boundaries, seeking new avenues of expression.
The essence of Ramotoana's current body of work lies in a poignant pursuit—an ardent longing to glimpse a picture of his father, whose departure from this world left an indelible void in his life at a tender age. The pursuit of his father's image led him to a sole relic, nestled in an old South African identification book, an evocative catalyst for his creative exploration.
With an artistic soul that pulsates with elegance and raw emotion, Ramotoana Richard Mokgomme paints his narrative on the canvas of life, weaving tales that resonate with the deepest aspects of the human experience. A true luminary of the art world, he continues to enchant and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who encounter his artistry.
