The VetKat Art Exhibition: A tribute to Khoisan heritage at the top of Table Mountain

A new art exhibition opened at the top of Table Mountain last Thursday, February 5, honouring the life and work of the late VetKat 'Regopstaan' Kruiper. 

The exhibition honours the life and work of the late VetKat Regopstaan Kruiper, often described as a “Living National Treasure”, whose art offers a contemporary expression of ancient Khoisan knowledge, spirituality and connection to the natural world.

VetKat’s artwork - produced naturally in pen, ink and felt-tip - bridges ancient Khoisan knowledge with the modern world. His imagery, spiritual symbolism and personal narratives challenge outdated myths of extinction and instead present heritage as something living, evolving and relevant.

The VetKat Art Foundation – a Khoisan heritage art and culture project led by his partner Belinda Kruiper – has progressed from concept to execution through her endeavours. “Let life be, as it should be, life and dignity for all,” said Ms Kruiper.

At the launch event, which took place at VIEWS by De Grendel, Ms Kruiper said the artwork was about attitude, love and respect. She described Vetkat as a lone sheep and a visionary. "He used to say: 'Alles wat ek doen, from the first line  - I don't know what's going to happen or how it is going to end."

"I think we call it ancient memory. What a gift to have...it comes from a source we all connect to." 

She spoke of a painting in the exhibition which she said symbolised the pandemic - not only the covid pandemic, but the state of confusion people are still reeling from. "What is interesting is the ground that is in chaos, and the painting says "welkom Vetkat asseblief Suid Afrika" (welcome Vetkat, please South Africa. He always felt he didn't belong in the community, and felt like he was never loved because of his gift."

Wahieda Parker, director of Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company, said Table Mountain was deeply embedded in South Africa’s cultural narrative. “Supporting initiatives like the VetKat Art Exhibition allows us to honour that heritage while creating meaningful economic and cultural opportunities for those who are its custodians.”

She said at a time the world is in such discord, having such a "healing and rejuvenating collaboration to bring home how special this mountain is to everybody, especially the First Nation people. This collaboration is about a unifying spirit that will help heal the bonds."

Park manager for SANParks, Megan Taplin, said Ms Kruiper and her family were truly a part of the SANParks family.

"Belinda began her career in 1997 at what is now the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and her family remains closely involved with the park and the surrounding community. "It’s wonderful to have them visiting us in Cape Town and sharing their heritage. I encourage everyone to visit the exhibition."

The exhibition continues at VIEWS by De Grendel at the Top Station until Sunday February 15, from 8am to 7pm daily. Visit www.vetkat.co.za