In this episode I speak with Didintle Khunou a highly accomplished South African actor known for her extensive work in screen acting, theater, voice acting, and as a session vocalist. She’s gained significant recognition for playing Celie in "The Color Purple Musical," making history as the first African performer to lead in this role, for which sh…

In this episode, I speak with Denisse a copywriter and photographer whose work revolves around words, people, and images. She crafts compelling narratives for brands through her lens as a photographer. She shares the importance of radical honesty and empathy in her work, and how she uses these values to connect with her subjects. She also explores …

In this episode I speak with Papa Versa a singer-songwriter, rapper, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, He has gained the respect and admiration as one of Ghana’s most versatile artists. Paapa has become known for thoughtful, sincere lyricism in genre-bending music. Born with a terrible stutter, music became his primary mode of expression. His gr…

In this episode, I speak with Tajh Rust. His art deeply interrogates society’s obsessions with tradition and over-consumption and offers a fresh perspective on representation. Tajh shares his background, influences, and artistic process. He talks about the importance of art residencies and his dream collaboration projects. Tajh also shares his expe…

In this episode, I speak with Djakou Kassi Nathalie a renowned ceramic artist from Cameroon. Her career is a testament to her passion, talent, and dedication to the art of ceramics, and her contributions continue to inspire and captivate audiences both at home and around the world. We discuss her journey as a ceramic artist as she shares insights i…

In this episode I speak with Yifan Zhang, whose work is a testament to the power of art to navigate and depict the complexities of cultural identity and personal growth. From an early age, Yifan embraced "carefully made mistakes" as a conduit for creative exploration, leading to the development of a significant body of work titled "Fault Art." His …

In this episode, I speak with Oluwole Omofemi an internationally recognized artist who is from the ancient city of Ibadan. He is mostly known as the last commissioned painting of Queen Elizabeth II before her death. He has held several solo and joint exhibitions both in Nigeria and abroad. Growing up in a challenging environment, Oluwole shares his…

In this episode, I speak with Chenoa Maxwell as she shares her journey from being an actress to becoming a renowned emotional intelligence coach. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in understanding and managing our emotions, building self-awareness, and developing empathy. She also shares tools and techniques for developing emo…

In this episode, I speak with LaTonya Yvette as we explore her daily rituals, motherhood, and the practice of writing. She opens up about the small moments that make a big impact on her craft, the role of fear in the creative process, and the profound influence her mother's legacy left on her. What does it mean to write from a place of healing and …

In this episode, I speak with Richard Nattoo, a distinguished artist from Jamaica. His work has been exhibited at the National Gallery of Jamaica and has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions across the UK and Ireland. Renowned for his unique mastery of watercolors, pen, and ink on canvas, Richard utilizes water from natural sources to bring…

In this episode, I speak with Jonathan Freemantle a distinguished artist whose art is deeply rooted in traditional techniques, yet explores the dynamic relationship between the human form, time, and the natural world. Utilizing unconventional materials like egg tempera and mountain rocks, Jonathan's work seeks to harmonize humanity with the earth. …

In this episode, I speak with Helel Smith to peel back the curtain on the trials of filmmaking in our corner of the world. Helel's candid revelations offer a piercing insight into the high-stakes game of filmmaking. He speaks about the urgency of time and change, framing the artist's journey as a pursuit against the relentless march of the clock. H…

In this episode, I speak with Kunle Afolayan, a celebrated Nigerian filmmaker with an illustrious career in cinema. Kunle has made significant contributions to Nollywood as a director, producer, and actor. Known for acclaimed films like "October 1" and "The Figurine," he's revered for his storytelling and cultural representation. With over two deca…

In this episode, I speak with Mariella Franzoni, a Contemporary Art Specialist, Curator, and Consultant with over 15 years of international experience across Spain, Italy, and South Africa. Her diverse career spans academic research, teaching, and various pivotal roles in art organizations and events. Mariella dedicates herself to guiding art colle…

Discover the vibrant intersections of art and history as we journey through the Investec Cape Town Art Fair with curators Natasha Becker and Amogelang Maledu. The episode unfolds as a rich tapestry woven from their experiences, with Natasha's New York Assembly Room background and Amogelang's profound grasp of South African black popular cultures an…

In this episode I speak with Ella Bulley, a Material Designer known for her unique blend of textiles, products, art, and set design. Through a fusion of in-depth research, material experimentation, and traditional craftsmanship, Ella Bulley's design philosophy acts as a transformative force, turning basic materials into sophisticated designs. Her w…

In this episode, I speak with Terence Maluleke a remarkable Visual Developer and Fine Artist who has collaborated with industry giants like Walt Disney Animation Studios, Sony Pictures Animation, Netflix, and Triggerfish. Terence is also a co-founder of Kasi Sketchbook, an initiative dedicated to establishing drawing clubs in townships. His project…

In this episode, I speak with art curator Larry Ossei-Mensah who works with some of the most dynamic visual artists working today. As part of ongoing conversations on the podcast, we talk about his reflections on the evolving art scene in Ghana and his innovative projects for 2024 that promise to challenge cultural narratives and promote self-repre…

In this episode, I speak with Manjot Kaur, an artist whose work transcends the realms of speculative fiction and ecological narratives. Manjot's art challenges the traditional focus on humans as central figures, exploring the deeper meanings of humanity and its relationship with the non-human world. Her paintings are a journey into a future beyond …

Stephanie Boateng and Kwame Augustine join us to share the captivating journey behind their latest creation, 'Johnny.' This dark comedy-drama mini-series, premiering at Silverbird Cinema in Ghana on Thursday the 11th of January 2024. This episode also opens up a critical dialogue about the broader implications of cross-continental collaborations in…

In this episode I speak with Maria Sosa a visionary artist whose work interrogates the complexities of history and contemporary social dynamics, particularly in the context of the colonization of America. Her art delves into profound themes such as the epistemicide of pre-Hispanic worlds, racism, sexism, and the often overlooked non-Western ways of…

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to introduce Heather Agyepong, a British Ghanaian visual artist, performer, actor, and maker, based in London. Her art practice, deeply concerned with mental health and wellbeing, the diaspora, combines visual art and performance to create an engaging experience for both herself and her audience. Heather's unique ap…

In this episode I speak with Bonobo Kavula whose art exists between the intersections of painting, printmaking, drawing, and sculpture, pushing the limitations of each. Initially creating the punched circular discs from canvas, Bonolo has moved to using traditional shweshwe cloth, invoking cultural, ancestral, archival and historical connotations s…

In this episode I speak with Natalie Paneng an innovative New Media artist from South Africa whose work embodies a unique blend of awkwardness and complexity, with a distinct quirkiness in her expression. Leveraging her self-acquired digital expertise and her background in theater, Natalie now excels in creating multifaceted digital art. She identi…

In this episode, I speak with Anico Mostert a versatile South African artist known for her multi-disciplinary approach, encompassing ceramics, textile design, animation, and painting. Her art focuses on capturing the quiet, everyday moments, characterized by intuitive processes that allow for vivid colors and playful figures. Anico often draws insp…

Join us as we journey through the captivating world of art and culture with Sean O'Toole, a veteran journalist, writer, and curator for the solo section in the upcoming 11th edition of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair in 2024. Sean gives us a peek behind the curtain of his life and the art world, along with his experience in curating, discussing the…

As we mark the 100th episode, we're honored to welcome a very special guest – my mother. Sharing her entrepreneurial spirit and wisdom, we delve into my vision of creating a mark in the vast world of media, publishing, filmmaking, and music, underpinned by my deep-seated passion for storytelling. Our conversation explores the intricate dance betwee…

Sit back and immerse yourself in a journey with our extraordinary guest, Cierra Chantel. While grappling with the ups and downs of her formative years, Cierra discovered her sanctuary in the written word, eventually molding her into the accomplished spoken word artist she is today. Listen as the conversation unfolds and she sheds light on her early…

Prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating journey of the humble Rwandan artist who defied societal stereotypes, Manzi Leon. With his inspiring story, he'll transport you to the heart of Africa where he began his artistic journey surrounded by color, joy, struggle, and triumph. Listen to Manzi's riveting narration of his early days, the bitter-…

Welcome to an enlightening episode where we journey through the creative path of the exceptionally talented visual artist, Chris Clark. Picture this, a humble artist from Jacksonville, Florida, who's been defying norms, challenging societal stereotypes, and transforming the art landscape since 2016. Now imagine that artist opening up about his fasc…

Get ready for a riveting conversation with the dynamic Tokini Peters-Schebeg! As the founder and CEO of ArtxLagos, the first international art fair of its kind in Africa, Tokini's innovative vision and tenacity have opened a whole new world for art lovers and artists alike. Learn how she navigated her way through tricky fundraising, logistical chal…

Have you ever thought about the power of transformation that lies in the overlooked? Our guest today, Dela Anyah, a renowned Ghanaian artist, has built her career on this very concept. Turning discarded inner tubes into captivating artistry, Dela's work is a testament to the transformation of the mundane into the meaningful; it's about rebirth, ide…

Saddle up for a transformative journey into the heart of artistry with our guest Ba Ousmane. Ousmane unique's perspective sees him as a temporal capsule, an enigma whose work only captures 30% of the meaning. The rest, he leaves up to interpretation, challenging the conventional notions of art. His aspiration to become a vessel that transcribes the…

Ever wish you could peek into the mind of a professional artist and discover their secrets? In our latest podcast, renowned stone carver and sculptor, William Peers, generously opens up about his creative journey. He paints a vivid picture of his path to becoming an artist, shedding light on the joys, the challenges, and the eureka moments. Listen …

What happens when creativity meets technology? Join us as we explore this fascinating intersection with our special guest, Doug, a seasoned filmmaker and passionate advocate for street art and muralism. We unpick the evolution of this dynamic art form and its journey from vibrant community expression to a tool in the hands of big brands. Doug bring…

What if the art world was not just exclusive, but inclusive? What if representation and diversity were not just buzzwords but an actual reality? Today, we sit down with the remarkable Kilolo Luckett, an art historian, curator, and passionate storyteller, who takes us on an enthralling journey from her Mississippi roots to her stellar career in the …

In this episode, I speak with Lauren Pearce a 34-year-old visual artist from Cleveland Ohio. Lauren shares her incredible journey as an artist from her financial hardships, exacerbated by her role as a single parent to a child with autism which brought her to moments of emotional and financial vulnerability. The struggle to sell her art intensified…

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Mimi Adu-Serwaah a pharmacist who shares her journey that led her to become a professional painter. Amidst the challenges of 2020, she turned to painting to deepen her connection with scripture. Mimi transitioned from abstract art to figurative work in 2021, feeling a strong urge to explore new dimensions in her cr…

In this episode, I speak with Teresa Brutcher, a figurative-realist artist based in Spain. Teresa's work employs the use of bold colors and intricate details drawing viewers into a shared emotional journey of human fears and connections. Her figurative-realist paintings are showcased in galleries and museums across Spain, Portugal, Germany, and the…

In this episode, I speak with Capetown-based artist Swain Hoogervorst as he shares his journey from a graphic designer to becoming a professional artist, highlighting the role of mentors and collaborative studio space in shaping his trajectory. Swain also speaks about the accessibility of Cape Town's art scene for emerging artists, emphasizing the …

In this episode, I speak with Amstamdam-based Esiri Erheriene-Essi who is a figurative painter with a focus on highlighting history and who shares her interest in collecting and creating an archive through her work as a way of questioning narratives. She paints from a wide collection of photographs, predominantly from the 1960s and 70s – sourced on…

By Jude Brandford-Sackey

In this episode, I speak with acclaimed film directors and producers Coodie Simmons and Chike Ozah. The directors share their experience putting together the three-part documentary film that has been in the making for over 20 years on the cultural zeitgeist Kanye West. Their Netflix documentary https://www.netflix.com/gh/title/81426972 details Kany…

In this episode, I speak with self-taught Nigerian artist Barry Yusufu who works with gradated charcoal drawing techniques and boldly colored acrylic paints to create his iconic works that reflect both a deep-rooted Christian faith and an intense desire to elevate the image of African men and women in art. Barry cites his work as an intense desire …

In this episode, I speak with textile artist Andrea Van Der Kuil from Johannesburg, South Africa, who is currently based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Andrea is an award-winning production designer, crafter, theatre-maker, performance artist, textile artist, and writer. Her work focuses on textile design, durational performance, and the concepts of la…

In this episode, I speak with Blessing Ngobeni a fine artist who creates abstract works of art with a variety of different objects. Blessing is known for his distinctive style, created with layers of exaggerated figures and contradictory images, He uses his expressionist paintings not only to overtly critique the current status quo but to ask uncom…

In this episode, I speak with Richard Mensah an Environmental Scientist based in London, he works and paints with different media. Richard describes himself as a born artist as his style is mainly intuitive. He relies on his intuitions to bring his ideas and concept into reality. Richard has been involved in numerous exhibitions and was selected in…

In this episode I speak with Mederic Turay a versatile storyteller that employs a range of techniques to bring his narratives to life, using a combination of figurative and abstract entities that serve as the focal points in his graphic stories. Mederic's distinctive style and the themes he explores are a reflection of his life journey and his West…

In this episode, I speak with Linda Dounia Rebeiz who is an artist, designer, and curator whose transdisciplinary practice explores the relationship between the immaterial and the material. Linda shares her experience growing up with parents that could both draw and paint which encouraged her creativity, she expresses art always being part of her l…

In this episode, I speak with Barbar "Barbora Kysilkova" an exceptionally talented artist whose life took a remarkable turn when two of her art pieces were stolen. We delve into her captivating story of her becoming friends with the thief and the incredible story of redemption that has captured the hearts of many. We also discuss the international …