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25.3.25
TEFAF Maastrich art fair 2025
13.3.25
Artist Spotlight: Winfred Nana Amoah shows us the spirit of Ghana and the beauty of its people
1. Tell us a bit about your hometown of Ghana, what was your life like growing up?
I grew up in Hohoe, a beautiful town in the Volta Region of Ghana, surrounded by lush landscapes and a strong sense of community. Life growing up was a blend of tradition and modern influences. I was always surrounded by creativity, from the vibrant local markets filled with colorful textiles to the storytelling traditions that shaped my imagination. Farming is also a big part of life here, so I developed a deep respect for the land and sustainability from an early age.
2. What influenced you to become an artist? How much support for the arts is there in your hometown?
My artistic journey was influenced by my environment—especially the way everyday materials tell stories. Seeing waste materials discarded carelessly made me think about how they could be repurposed into something meaningful. Also, mental health is something I deeply care about, and art became a way for me to explore and express those themes.
In my hometown, art is often viewed more as a craft than a profession, so support for contemporary artists can be limited. However, there is a growing appreciation for creativity, especially as more young artists push boundaries and merge traditional and modern styles.
3. Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from everyday life, mental health, and sustainability. My work is influenced by human emotions, conversations, and the impact of waste on the environment. I want my art to make people reflect—whether it’s about their inner struggles or the world around them.
4. You use a variety of materials in your work. How did that come about?
It started with my interest in sustainability and my belief that art should not be confined to traditional materials. I began experimenting with textiles, plastics, news articles, and acrylic on canvas—each material adding a different layer of meaning to my work. For example, plastics symbolize waste and consumerism, while news articles capture moments in time and societal issues. This combination allows me to tell deeper, more textured stories.
5. Where do you hope to show your work in the future?
I hope to showcase my work both locally and internationally. I would love to exhibit in galleries that focus on sustainability and contemporary African art, as well as corporate spaces like banks and eco-conscious organizations that align with my themes.
6. If you weren’t an artist, who would you be?
I would probably be a full-time environmental advocate or work closely with farmers on sustainable practices. My love for nature and my concern for the planet are deeply tied to my artistic practice, so I imagine I would still be involved in something that allows me to make an impact.
7. What do you do when you’re not working?
When I’m not creating, I’m usually engaged in climate volunteerism—educating farmers on sustainable practices and repurposing plastics in my community. I also enjoy exploring nature, reading about different art movements, and connecting with other creatives.
8. What do you want people to know about you as an artist?
I want people to know that my art is more than just visual expression—it’s a conversation starter about mental health, sustainability, and the stories we leave behind. Every material I use carries meaning, and my goal is to make people think, feel, and reflect on their surroundings.
9. What do you wish people knew about your homeland of Ghana?
Ghana is a country of resilience, creativity, and warmth. Beyond the headlines, we have a rich culture, a deep connection to storytelling, and a growing art scene that deserves global recognition. Also, sustainability is something deeply rooted in our traditional ways of life, and I hope more people see Ghana as a place of innovation and artistic potential.
4.3.25
Latin American Art Fair: zona maco 2025
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Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2025
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