How do you choose which materials to work with? Is it intuitive, or do you have specific image in mind?

That's a great question! My approach to choosing materials is a blend of intuition and conscious decision-making, often influenced by the specific message or narrative I want to convey. Intuition: Sometimes, a particular material simply calls out to me.

I might stumble upon something discarded, and its form, texture, or colour immediately sparks an idea. The material itself becomes the starting point, and I allow my intuition to guide me in exploring its potential.

Your art explores identity, consumerism, and sustainability. How do these themes intertwine in your work?

In my artwork, these themes are intricately intertwined, creating a complex tapestry that reflects the human condition in the face of consumerism and its environmental consequences.

Identity and Consumerism: Our identities are often shaped by the things we consume. The brands we wear, the gadgets we own, and the experiences we purchase all contribute to how we see ourselves and how we are perceived by others. My work explores this phenomenon by transforming discarded consumer goods into objects of art, questioning the role of material possessions in defining who we are.

Consumerism and Sustainability: The rampant consumerism of our time is putting immense pressure on the planet's resources. My art serves as a visual commentary on this issue, highlighting the environmental impact of our insatiable appetite for consumption. By giving new life to discarded objects, I aim to challenge the linear model of production and consumption, encouraging viewers to consider alternative, more sustainable ways of living.

What role do you believe art can play in fostering a more sustainable future?

Art can play a vital role in fostering a more sustainable future by raising awareness. Art can effectively communicate complex environmental issues in a visually engaging and emotionally resonant way.

Through powerful imagery, thought-provoking installations, and performances, artists can raise awareness about climate change, pollution, resource depletion, and other pressing environmental challenges. I remember in one of my exhibitions in Ghana at the National Science Museum, a woman approached me with amazement as she looked closely at my works. She said, “Your work has really changed my perception of waste, from now I will keep my waste and give it to those who need it.”

What do you hope viewers feel or take away when they experience your art?

Feel a sense of wonder and curiosity: I want to evoke a sense of awe and intrigue, inviting viewers to explore the intricacies of the discarded materials and the stories they hold.

I hope my work prompts viewers to reflect on their own consumption habits and consider the impact of their choices on the environment and society.

I want to foster a greater respect for the natural world and inspire a desire to protect and preserve our planet's resources.

Despite the gravity of the issues I explore, I want to offer a message of hope and possibility. By transforming discarded materials into objects of beauty and meaning, I aim to demonstrate that even in the face of environmental challenges, there is still room for creativity, innovation, and positive change. There is hope, life, and value in any discarded material out there, and so it is with humans.

Ultimately, I hope my work sparks conversations, challenges perspectives, and inspires viewers to take action towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

What advice would you give other artists starting out on their journey?

Building a successful art career takes time: Don't get discouraged by setbacks. Learn from your mistakes, persevere through challenges, and celebrate your successes.