Basotho origins have cosmic significance. There is an ancient belief and connection to a galactic core. It’s called Mokgubu wa Kganare. A timeless lineage descends from the star Peo Ya Makgakga – the seed of Makgakga, together with Mabeleha – the fertile woman sorghum. Makgakga and Mabeleha, the primordial forefather and foremother, shine forever over generations past, present and yet to come. Amongst the infinite constellation is the revered Tosamasiu, Sirius.

The mystical cycle of being can be appreciated here in Tshikare’s three figurative works, Sango (Aquarius), Tosamasiu (Canis Major) and, the most radiant of all, Magakgala (the combined Orion, Canis Major and Canis Minor). From conception, to birth, development and then on to the full expression of life, Sango, Tosamasiu and Magakgala remain at the core of every time of life.
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Hand-drawn markings on each print speak to another layer of expression: the symbolism of the written (and spoken) word. The Sesotho suffix ‘-di’ refers to a perpetuity of being and meaning. Madi means blood, Ledumedi is belief, Modumedi is a believer, Naledi is a star. From an outer universe, to these inner expressions of Tshikare’s own core understanding and being, comes an intriguing connection to his work. We seek and find hopefully also ourselves as a common humanity, each to another.
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The botanical series resonates with feminine and water-related names. Echoing the figurative works, there is a ‘lifeline’ connection between the primordial fluid of the womb and the life- sustaining sap, nectars and extracts that we draw from the natural habitat. Another Sesotho ‘-di’ suffix is Lekedi referring to hydrogen. This linguistic element extends to Mokedikedi, the liquid we know as H2O – that life-sustaining flow of water.