Accra's Art Scene Debates Definitions and Builds Institutions Through CritLab and Galleries

A panel discussion on contemporary African art took place in December at Accra's Goethe-Institut, led by Elizabeth Ofosuah Johnson. Curator Nuna Adisenu-Doe highlighted the increase in Ghana's galleries from five in 2006 to more than thirty, while pointing out existing infrastructure challenges. American artist Laurel Richardson raised the issue of whether definitions should encompass the diaspora. German curator Gabriel Schimmeroth expressed concerns about the pressure on African artists to embody their nationality, referencing a 2022 project involving Ghanaian artist Kelvin Haizel, who was preparing new abstract works during his residency at Gallery 1957. The gallery also showcased a group exhibition featuring artists such as Amoako Boafo and Zanele Muholi. CritLab, a program by the Exit Frame Collective at the Foundation for Contemporary Art, facilitates discussions on Ghanaian art history. Johnson emphasized the need for sustainability, with Adisenu-Doe calling for government support.