British High Commission holds private viewing of Ghana's most vibrant art

The British High Commission holds an important role in Ghana; specifically, to strengthen the diplomatic relationships between the two nations. On Thursday, at the residence of Iain Walker, the British High Commissioner, another purpose was set: to bridge the gap between the United Kingdom and Ghana through art.

At a private art exhibition showcasing the “Modern Ghanaian Masterpieces from the Seth Dei Collection,” the Commissioner expressed enthusiasm about Ghana’s eclectic art scene.

Abdoulaye Konate - Composition 3 Reptiles

“We need to make sure that the arts here locally are brought to a much bigger audience,” said Walker. “I think it is when we work together and partner with organizations like Bonhams that we find talents here and make them global.”

Bonhams is one of the world’s oldest auction houses specializing in fine art and antiques. On October 4^th, the privately-owned British auctioneer will auction off Dei’s collection in London. The pieces range from £10,000 - £50,000.

“Art serves a lot of functions in society,” said Wei, who collects over 500 Ghanaian pieces of art valued at more than £1,000,000. “Artists have a very different way of seeing things and their perspective is like a newspaper except you hang it on a wall.”

 Harry Agyeman - Feeling the Jam 

Art collecting serves as a hobby for Dei. His full-time job is serving as partner and co-founder of Blue Skies Ghana Limited, a popular food-processing company in the country. He is also an Executive Director at Merchant Bank Ghana Limited and Director of Metropolitan Insurance Company Limited.

Emmanuel Adiamah - Divided Attention

Dei attests that Ghanaian artists hold the power to compete on the world stage because they “aren’t afraid to take risks.” He is hopeful that the auction will do well in an effort to bridge the gap between Ghana and the rest of the world.

Art Connoisseur? Seth Dei's (center) collection is worth more than £1,000,000.

This collection is testament to one man: Seth,” said Deputy British High Commissioner Tom Hartley. “It is the most wonderful collection of art and it is going to be a groundbreaking moment for Ghana.”

 

 

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