By Ekow Barnes
Image: "Wa nu pє asєm” by Kwabena Ofe Amponsah
Kwabena Ofe Amponsah Gideon is a 23-year-old Ghanaian textile artist who began his creative journey as a fashion model before transitioning into the world of art particularly in the craft of rug making. Using sack linen as his canvas, he combines traditional techniques like batik and tie-dye with contemporary wool work to create pieces that are not just visually captivating but also narratively rich. Kwabena’s art is his voice, a medium through which he navigates and expresses the complexities of identity, community, and social justice. His rugs are more than decor; they are conversations, inviting viewers into a dialogue about unity and diversity. His piece, “We Are One,” exemplifies this, where different skin tones and patterns merge, symbolizing a world where diversity strengthens rather than divides.
From a young age, Kwabena was branded a “Kubolor” – a term for someone who is odd or different. What was once a label of exclusion has become his emblem of pride. He speaks of growing up under the weight of societal expectations, where success was measured by a stable job, not by the authenticity of one’s dreams. Art became his refuge, his rebellion against the conventional path laid out for him. The journey wasn’t easy. The pressure to conform, the constant questioning from family about when he would get a “real job,” and the broader societal view that art was not a viable career path in Ghana were formidable barriers. Yet, Kwabena found strength in his art and in the community of fellow “Kubolors” – those dreamers who, like him, dared to live differently.
He acknowledges the systemic challenges artists face in Ghana, where support systems for creatives are sparse, and the allure of seeking success abroad can be strong. There were moments when the dream seemed unattainable, when the emotional toll of societal rejection and the struggle for recognition seemed too much. A poignant moment of vulnerability came when he realized the shared pain among men who are told to hide their emotions, leading to a profound personal breakthrough. Despite these challenges, Kwabena’s vision is clear. He aims to redefine success, to show that it lies in authenticity, in standing out rather than fitting in. His art is a call to action, urging others to embrace their unique identities and to foster a world where every “Kubolor” can thrive.
Through his work, Kwabena not only shares his story but also invites us into a broader narrative about the power of art to change perceptions, heal wounds, and build bridges. His message is simple yet profound: “success isn’t about conforming but about courageously being yourself, no matter the cost”.
In Search of Greener Pastures
“I never thought I’d have to make but now feel compelled to take. In the tricycle, I see myself and countless others—bags packed, no turning back. I worked hard, followed every rule society gave me: study hard, get a degree, and success will follow. But here I am, a graduate with no job, no opportunities, and endless pressure from home to find work. The tricycle, marked with the word “Jakpa,” reflects my desperate attempt to leave my country in search of something better, even if it means taking a menial job that disregards my qualifications.This journey isn’t about running away; it’s about survival, about finding the dignity that the system at home failed to provide. It’s the reality of a dream sold to us by society, a dream that, for many of us, has led only to frustration and the need to seek hope elsewhere.”
RESILIENCE OF IDENTITY
“This piece explores the internal battle between our past, present, and future selves. It symbolizes the tension between who we are and who we hope to be, reflecting the struggle of confronting different versions of ourselves shaped by society. The work emphasizes that life’s greatest fight isn’t against the world, but with the evolving versions of ourselves,our dreams, hopes, and realities. Ultimately, it speaks to the courage required to accept all facets of who we are, embodying the themes of resilience, freedom, and the journey toward self-acceptance.”
NO SWEETNESS HOME
“I was sent to school to pursue a career I never wanted, studying subjects that didn’t ignite my passion. Now that I’ve graduated, I find myself at home without a job, feeling like a burden to my family. Their mounting pressure for me to find employment amplifies my sense of failure and despair. It’s as if I was raised to become a success story, but instead, I am caught in a cycle of unmet expectations and disappointment. The feeling of being chased out of my home echoes the sentiment that I am no longer a cherished son, but rather a responsibility that needs to be resolved.”
THE MUSE OF TOGETHERNESS
“In the heart of our shared struggle, we discover that joy isn’t about fitting into society’s rigid expectations,it’s about finding a sense of belonging in the most unlikely places. This piece captures the essence of resilience, not in isolation but in community. It reflects how, despite being seen as outcasts for daring to chase dreams outside the norm, we find solace and strength in each other’s company. In this moment, it’s not about the game but the bond that grows stronger with every challenge we face together. Each player stands as a reminder that while the world may try to push us down, we lift each other up. Here, we are not alone in our struggles, and in that togetherness, we find the courage to keep going, to keep dreaming, and to remain true to ourselves, no matter how unconventional our paths may be.”
THE SILENT BATTLE FOR FREEDOM
“Kubolor stands at a pivotal point in his life, caught between the crushing weight of societal expectations and his deep longing to live a life true to himself. The world around him constantly pushes for a polished, ideal version of success one defined by rigid professionalism, corporate suits, and the approval of others. Yet, Kubolor yearns for something deeper, something more aligned with his soul.His sorrowful expression reveals the internal battle he faces,a fight to break free from the mold he’s been placed in.The journey to self-authenticity is never easy, and Kubolor’s struggle is deeply personal. His golden hair is a small act of rebellion, symbolizing his quiet defiance against tradition. Despite the weight of expectations, he remains committed to his dream, refusing to let society dictate his path. His resilience shines through, reminding us all that the greatest struggle is often the fight to stay true to ourselves.”
Read the original article on Guzang.
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