Photography: Christian Cervantes
Exhibition: Belvedere Museum

What is growth for you?

Growth to me is getting wiser with time, allowing mistakes to be teaching moments to become a better version of yourself. 

What keeps you grounded?

Accra. There’s nothing like home to remind you of where you come from and where you’re going. The people, the community, my family, the city...they’re all a strong support system that keeps me faithful to my vision. 

How does nature influence your creative process?

I find a lot of joy in green spaces. I have to have plants around me, in and out of my studio, in and out my house. Maybe I could have plants in my car if it’s possible lol. 

What is a book that has inspired you?

‘I Do Not Come To You By Chance’ is a novel by Nigerian writer Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani. It tells the story of the sacrifices a young Nigerian man makes to take care of his family after his father passed. It challenges what we consider good and bad in society, who we consider smart or not and what we dignify when the only option is survival. I like it a lot because there is a lot in it that I can relate to when I think of my own journey as an African artist. 

What is your favorite plant?

That’s a difficult question to answer but if I were to choose, I’d think of the plants that I often go back to in my paintings. I have a strong attachment to ivy and cacti. The ivy is a plant that can represent growth in a way.It’s a plant of possibility and abundance. I like it a lot, it’s a reminder of what can be achieved. The cactus is a plant of strength and resilience. It’s a plant that is very secure and protects itself. Both plants are kind of wild, evolving in their own way, in their will, whether you attend to them or not, they make their destiny. I’m sure you could say that about a lot of plants, but these two have a special place in my heart.