Biography

Katlego C.L. Twala (b. 2000, Gaborone, Botswana) is a contemporary painter based in Gaborone, Botswana. Working primarily with oil on linen and cotton, Twala is known for vibrant figurative portraits that draw from the techniques of the old masters while speaking to a contemporary and universal visual language. She studied at the Swedish Academy of Realist Art and the Barcelona Academy of Art, grounding her practice in strong technical foundations.

Her work explores personal identity and present day social dynamics through a lens informed by feminist theory and psychology. Influenced by writers like bell hooks, Twala’s paintings often reflect intimate, complex relationships within the context of contemporary Southern Africa specifically Botswana. Through the layering of classical realism and current themes, she creates nuanced, emotionally resonant portraits that explore ideas of selfhood, gender, and connection.

Her first art fair was the 2025 Latitudes Art Fair, where she presented a sold-out solo booth with the Banana Club Artist Fund. Following that was a pivotal group exhibition, Does It End in a Miracle? at Everard Read Cape Town, alongside female artists Mma Helen Sebidi and Mary Sibande. She later received the Sponsor Award at the Toyota Tsusho CFAO African Art Award, a highly competitive honor for which she was selected from over 100 African artists. These milestones mark her growing presence as an emerging voice in contemporary painting.