During his talk at the Trippenhuis, Mahama elaborated on the background of his installation Garden of Scars and how the work fits into his broader artistic practice. The talk also discussed his artistic practice and his commitment to the development of culture in Ghana: Mahama founded the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art (SCCA) in Tamale, which runs workshops for schoolchildren, among other things. In 2020, he opened the sprawling Red Clay Studio complex, with exhibition spaces, research facilities and artist residences. In his work, he reflects on themes of globalisation, labour and the circulation of goods, with works also created thanks to a series of collaborations with Ghanaian citizens.

He concluded his talk with a personal ambition and mission to the art world: 'Can we transform art from a state of commodity to a gift?'. After the artist talk, the Oude Kerk was open and visitors could view the art installation.

Materials

Microphone, speakers, screen, podium

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