Traditional Bushman artist Vetkat Regopstaan Kruiper, aged 38, dies suddenly from natural causes

Regopstaan Kruiper, also known as Vetkat, was a prolific artist. He was born at the camp Twee Rivieren in the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park (now Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park).  The Kruipers are from the #Khomani Bushmen who live in the Southern Kalahari, close to the National Park.  Vetkat's father was a well-respected man was also a versatile artist /craftsperson and healer. Vetkat had many artistic skills including music.  His main passion however was for the veld and animals. Despite having no formal training, Vetkat rose to fame as a fine artist taking his inspiration from his cultural heritage and the desert he grew up in. Vetkat's art was lauded both nationally and internationally.