[12.54..GHANA] In Living Colour with Kofi Frempong

WHAT TO EXPECT...WHEN YOU PUSH PLAY

Kondwani Mwase sits down with Ghanaian-Canadian artist Kofi Frimpong for a vibrant discussion about his artistic journey, creative process, and the power of community. Kofi shares insights into how his colourful paintings connect with people, especially those in the African diaspora. Join them as they explore the importance of love, laughter, and endless possibilities in art and life.

LEAN IN, LISTEN UP...AND LEARN

• Inspired by his father's doodling of Egyptian characters, Kofi's artistic journey began at a young age.
• Kofi's paintings often feature vibrant colours and textured backdrops that tell a story, with figures and faces complementing the narrative.
• Reflecting his love for people, community, collaboration, and the idea of creating spaces conducive to love, learning, and laughter, Kofi's art serves as a powerful connector.
• Kofi's passion for community building and spreading love stems from his belief in the importance of supporting one another and creating environments that foster endless possibilities.
• Kofi's Ghanaian roots influence his art through the use of vibrant colours and the way he interacts with people, emphasizing politeness and respect.
• Focusing on the backdrop to tell a story, Kofi's creative process involves adding a figure or face that fits the narrative as the final piece.
• Engaging conversations with his wife and children, playing sports like basketball and volleyball, and reading books, even if he doesn't always finish them, provide Kofi with escape and fun.

OUR HIGHs (NO LOWs)

[00:08:29] "I noticed the teacher coming. I realised that I didn't have time to, you know, hide my drawing. So, I just kept going. And to my surprise my teacher didn't actually get upset. In fact, she was really impressed." - Kofi shares a pivotal moment in his artistic journey.

[00:11:03] "The process in itself is for me, and then the artwork is for the world. Lucky for me when people see my artwork they find a connection." - Kofi explains how his creative process is personal, while his art connects with others.

[00:24:33] "When we create these environments that are conducive to love, learning, laughter and endless possibility, it just feels good” - Kofi discusses his passion for community building and how it relates to his art.

[00:32:45] "I feel like there's definitely a strong connection between Ghana and Nigeria. Um, obviously, you know Ghana must go and Nigeria must go. That's in the past. But right now, I feel like we're definitely family." - Kofi highlights the connection between Ghana and Nigeria, recommending Nigeria as the next destination for 54Lights.

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54Lights is committed to illuminating the African experience...one story (brush stroke) at a time.