In this season premiere of the Change Africa Podcast, we sit down with none other than James Barnor, the legendary Ghanaian photographer and photojournalist whose work has defined generations. Often referred to as the godfather of photography in Ghana, Barnor pioneered color photography and processing in the country, capturing some of the most iconic moments in Ghanaian history.
At 95 years old, Grandpa James—also known as Lucky Jim—reflects on his incredible journey from being a young apprentice in Accra to becoming a globally celebrated artist with exhibitions at Tate Modern, the Victoria & Albert Museum, and beyond. He shares insights on luck, the importance of education, and the awakening of his passion for photography. Barnor discusses capturing history through ordinary lives, the significance of celebrating forgotten heroes, and the need for community engagement in the arts. He emphasizes the importance of legacy, the pioneering spirit in national development, and the impact of technological advancements in photography. Barnor expresses his desire to inspire the next generation of photographers and his vision for the future of art in Ghana.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Change Africa Podcast
01:02 The Journey of James Bano
04:00 Reflections on Luck and Education
06:04 The Impact of Photography on History
09:58 Celebrating Forgotten Heroes
12:13 The Role of Community in Photography
16:02 Inspiration for the Next Generation
19:59 Legacy and Institutionalization of Work
24:35 Pioneering Spirit in Photography and Beyond
27:02 Cultural Contributions and Community Engagement
30:04 Adapting to Technological Changes in Photography
36:53 Reflections on Life and Future Aspirations
39:04 Political Insights and National Development Plans
Guest Profile
James Barnor, born in 1929 in Accra, Ghana, is a pioneering figure in African photography. Known for introducing color processing to Ghana in the 1970s and documenting societies in transition, his work spans street and studio photography, capturing Ghana’s move toward independence and London’s multicultural evolution. His exhibitions at the Tate Modern and MoMA have cemented his global influence, and he has received accolades like the Order of Volta and an honorary fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society. His official website, James Barnor, offers further insights into his legacy.
This podcast is a production of Nexa Media.
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