My name is Joseph Awumee
Born in 1998, Ghana. I do Sculpture, Photography, Installation
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Tema, a city in the greater accra region of Ghana
Why did you become an artist?
It was more of an epihany. being an artist gave me peace, the freedom to express myself, my beliefs and unique perspectives. This i feel is a powerful tool that can serve as a catalyst for change.
How would you describe your own style?
I would describe it as unique particularly because of the techniques and processes used in the creation of my work.
What expectations were placed on you when you were a child?
As a child, i was expected to excel academically and be on my best behaviour always.
What profession could you be in if you were not an artist?
I would be an entrepreneur.
Who is your favourite artist of all time and what is your favourite artwork of all time?
Currently admire artist Monira Al Quadri and her sculpture series titled OR-BIT.
Which person outside art do you admire? And for what?
I admire Tyler Perry for his success in the film industry and his entrepreneurial spirit.
What advice would you give to your younger self? (16-18 years old)
I would advice my younger self to embrace failure, not to see it as a setback but as an opportunity to learn and grow.
What do you like about the culture you grew up in?
I love the fact that it has a rich, diverse and endless pool of inspiration which could fuel the creation of new ideas and work for the future.
With which 3 people (dead or alive) would you like to spend a creative weekend?
Tyler Perry, Jeff Koons and Ye.
If you had to live in a different African city, not in the country where you were born or raised, which city would you pick and why?
It would be in Zanzibar, mainly because of it’s tropical natural beauty, beautiful beaches and a peaceful serene environment which would eventually affect the kind of art i create.
What message would you want artists to hear right now?
I want artists to be focused, dedicated and love their art practice. Block out all external influences that would hinder them from creating the work they truly believe in.
