African Creativity Takes

African CREATIVITY TAKES CENTER STAGE

A LOOK AT TEN OF KOFI AGORSOR’S ILLUSTRATIONS THAT HAVE TAKEN GHANAIAN ARTISTIC EXPRESSION TO THE WORLD.

frican artists have long been credited for their ability to redraft and communicate

Athe African narrative through their distinctive workmanship. The term “art” is one that has transcended generations, taking on various new forms – from performance to illustration - using diverse mediums.

Travellers often connect with the culture of a destination through its artistic landscape, as is evidenced by just how much arts and crafts markets almost always appear on the itineraries of most. If it’s a souvenir you are looking for that forms a stellar reminder of experiences in a place beyond purchasing the rudimentary t-shirt with a destination’s name on it, then a visit to a curio shop or crafts market will surely tick many boxes. But sometimes, there are artists whose works have scaled the subsistence landscape, building a name for the curator and creative as his or her works stand alongside those of other artists at art displays the world over.

Ghanaian artist Kofi Agorsor’s work is well revered in the global contemporary art landscape, having made a name for himself through solo and group

exhibitions as well as art auctions locally and internationally. Taking the story of Ghana to the world as he works predominantly in painting, sculpture, and music, Agorsor’s prized artworks chronicle the everyday lives of Ghanaians in pursuit of growing modernisation. His work is presented mostly in an abstract and animated manner, using vibrant colour and distinctive patterns and sounds.

Born in the Volta region of Ghana, he grew up to then study architecture before completing more work specific to developing his artistic prowess at the Ankle College of Art. Agorsor’s use of pulsating colors has evolved into an interpretation of the essence of lived experiences not just of people in Ghana, but those of modern Africa as well. His subject matter borders on the generic but rendered often in a buoyant, semi-abstract and witty manner. His canvases may be sparsely populated; often with a solitary figure in a sensuous pose, two lovers enjoying the presence of each other or they may be very populated, inhabited by crowds of market women or glitterati at events. Some of the canvases may be encumbered with splashes, drips, and flows of paint that intertwine to become forests or mazes of enchantment. It’s safe to say, his sculptures are an embodiment of spontaneous orderliness.

Agorsor is also a musician and a member of the Afro-world band called “AGORSOR. An engagement with his musical work, just like his artwork, is very rewarding. It often reflects the energetic subtleties of the collective of musicians he has worked with over time. Recently he has been spending a lot of time in the recording studio with his band. Inspired by both the natural and supernatural worlds, Agorsor’s art and

HERE ARE 10 OF KOFI AGORSOR’S ILLUSTRATIONS AND SCULPTURES FROM HIS GROWING BODY OF COLLECTIVE WORKS

music inspires publics greatly.

Above: The Precious fishes 2018 Acrylic on Canvas

Above: Riches 2007/12 Ebony wood

Top Right : Beauty of lovers 2020, Acrylic on canvas

Bottom Right: In love with the green lady 2019/20, Acrylic on canvas

No Discrimination (2011) Tree/Brown Ebony wood

Below: The white heart 2019/20 Acrylic on Canvas

Above: The Universe 2017 Acrylic on canvas

To see more of

Agorsor’s work, contemporary art enthusiasts can connect with him on @kofiagorsor

Music Night 120x120cm 2019/20 acrylic on canvas

Below (left): Riches at table 2020 Acrylic on canvas

Below (Right): Home 237/59cm Ebony Brown

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