A self-taught visual artist from Mahalapye, Rexx is the creative genius behind the illustrations on the customized BK Proctor sneakers gifted to President Mokgweetsi Masisi recently.
Known for his magnificent murals, the 27-year-old has previous when it comes to working with big brands, having linked up with the likes of Glotto and KBL in the past.
Let’s get to know this rising star better…
Kindly introduce yourself.
My full name is Morekolodi Mautle but everyone calls me Rexx.
I am 27 years old and home for me is Mahalapye, although I was born in Gaborone and have lived here all my life.
I am a self-taught visual artist.
What exactly is a visual artist?
The kind of art I do is various in the visual spectrum.
It includes: drawing, painting, mural painting, digital art & design, concept design, clothing customization, branding etc…
So how did you get into art?
I believe I’ve always been into art because I don’t remember a time I wasn’t engaging with drawings and art.
Mention some of your works.
I have done a lot, but I will mention just a few.
I collaborated with Fifi Wale for KBL’s ‘Mo ke Botswana’ campaign mural and the leteisi limited edition St Louis can.
I also designed the interior and exterior murals at Main Deck Main Mall.
Additionally, there is a health mural at Molapo Crossing which was a collaboration with Fifi Wale and Khwezi, and another mural for the Botswana Vaccine institute.
Was your family supportive of you venturing into art full time?
When I chose to take the path of art, they were a bit skeptical of my decision but it was easier for them to accept it because they’ve always seen me as an artist.
What inspires your artworks?
I believe my inspiration comes from life itself, through my daily or continual life experiences.
I somehow find them to add up into my creative processes and express them into an art.
Some people say art is an inherited skill, does that apply to you?
Yes, I think I’ve somehow inherited the art from my grandmother’s side of the family ‘coz I grew up seeing her do some art on quilts and murals on mud huts.
My other family members are also good with their dexterity.
Speaking of family, what kind of family do you come from?
I have two older sisters and a twin brother.
We were raised by my mother under a single parent household.
Besides missing out on certain privileges, I feel like being raised by my mother gave me a sense of independence, in life in general as well as in my work.
How has your practice changed over the years?
I’ve seen my art evolve from just drawings to graphic arts, to mural paintings and much more branches within that.
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I’ve worked as a shop assistant and computer operator in a phone shop for just a month.
Art notoriously doesn’t pay well in Botswana – do you have any other source of income?
Yes, I’m also a barber when I’m not doing arts.
What’s your most meaningful painting?
I have this one artwork I named ‘The Thinking Man (2016)’ and it has taught me that I can always expand my thoughts and creativity to the most beautiful things.
What would Rexx be without his paintings?
It’s really hard to part with painting because I feel like it relieves some inner thoughts and feelings or it’s more like a comfort place.
I can’t imagine the devastation I’d live without it.
What’s your biggest fear?
I live fearlessly.
However, if I did have any fears, it would be not reaching my full potential as an artist.
What about regrets?
I don’t think I have any regrets because I live life as it comes.
Cider or Lager – if at all you’re a drinker!
I prefer Lager.
Five things people don’t know about you?
1. I think people don’t know that I have a twin (fraternal)
2. I can play soccer skillfully
3. I’m awesome at making beats
4. I bring life to the party
5. I can cook
