Award-winning photographer Barima Owusu–Nyantekyi is set to present a groundbreaking exhibition of Ashanti Kingdom portraits titled “This Is Asante” during Accra Cultural Week 2024. Scheduled to run from October 25th to October 30th at The Mix Hub in Accra, the exhibition promises an exclusive insight into the rich legacy of the 300-year-old Ashanti monarchy. Owusu–Nyantekyi’s unique access to royal life has allowed him to craft a powerful visual narrative that intertwines ancient traditions with contemporary influences. Through this collection, he aims to celebrate the enduring significance of the Ashanti Kingdom not only in African history but also in the global context.
The exhibition features profound and intimate portraits, including notable figures such as the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, and the late Kofi Annan. It also chronicles significant events, such as the Asantehene’s Silver Jubilee Celebrations held in both Kumasi and London this year. Owusu–Nyantekyi emphasizes that his series embodies the far-reaching impact of the Ashanti Kingdom on current global culture, positioning Ghana’s traditional heritage as vital in the broader narrative of the African diaspora. By documenting elements such as royal regalia and traditional ceremonies, he not only showcases the vibrancy of Ashanti culture but also introduces social commentary, highlighting contemporary influences like the use of smartphones during traditional festivities.
The timing of “This Is Asante” coincides with Black History Month, enriching the ongoing conversation about African cultural heritage within a global framework. This exhibition serves as a platform to elevate awareness about the Ashanti Kingdom’s significant contributions to history and culture. Following the positive reception of Owusu–Nyantekyi’s work at the British Museum and during the ASOHOM charitable gala in Accra, the anticipation surrounding this exhibition only amplifies its cultural importance. Critics and art seekers alike are eager to engage with the visual storytelling that the exhibition promises.
Ivor Agyeman-Duah, an esteemed Ashanti historian and director of the Asantehene’s Manhyia Palace Museum, has lauded the exhibition for its insightful representation of the Ashanti Kingdom. He notes that this year marks an important milestone for the Asantehene and his lineage, making the showcased works not only artistically stunning but valuable in terms of historical context. Agyeman-Duah’s praise highlights the exhibition’s capability to bridge the past with the present, immortalizing the experiences and legacies of one of West Africa’s most significant cultural entities.
The exhibition will officially commence with a special launch event on the evening of October 24th at 7 PM. It will conclude on October 30th with a conversation between the celebrated photographer Barima Owusu–Nyantekyi and art curator Menenaba, who contributed to the exhibition statement. This closing discussion will provide an opportunity for attendees to delve deeper into Owusu–Nyantekyi’s creative process and explore the themes resonant within the collection. The integration of a dialogue panel signifies the importance of fostering discussions around cultural identity and representation through visual arts.
Barima Owusu–Nyantekyi stands out as a remarkable photographer and cultural advisor, renowned for capturing the dialogue between tradition and modernity. His work, which focuses on African heritage, has attained international recognition through various cultural projects and exhibitions across Ghana, the UK, and the USA. As “This Is Asante” unfolds, it promises to be a significant contribution to the artistic landscape, emphasizing the importance of the Ashanti Kingdom’s influence and celebrating Ghana’s rich heritage rooted in history and ongoing relevance.
