The well-known Kalahari artist Regopstaan Kruiper (Verkat) died of a lung infection at his Kalahari home on April 11.

Vetkat’s work was well-known in the Durban area through several exhibitions held in his name at Bergtheil Museum in Westville. From this small beginning, Vetkat went on to exhibit at the Evita se Perron Gallery in Darling, the Sophia Gallery in Simonstown and at the United Nations Building as part of an Indigenous People’s Art Exhibition.

As well as private collectors, his art was bought by several South African universities and museums. Vetkat and his devoted wife Belinda also made several radio and TV appearances in which they documented their lives and those of the remaining bushmen.

Although Vetkat was persuaded on several occasions to visit the “big” city, his heart was always in the Kalahari. It was here that he died at only 38 years old.

Vetkat will be sadly missed by those fortunate enough to call this shy gentle man “friend”.

More information from Mrs M Lange on 082 652 7091.