William Ntiamoah is a contemporary artist based in Staffordshire, recently graduating with an MA in Fine Art from Staffordshire University. See more of his work here.

This exhibition is in partnership with Kwanzaa Collective UK * and is part of Africa 54; a programme of events that explore the history, culture, fashion and art of the 54 countries in Africa. During this exhibition, Ntiamoah will also be Artist-in-Residence at Appetite's Newcastle Common alongside fellow visual artist Daby Obiechefu, responding to the themes of the Tribes: Matabeleland to Staffordshire exhibition.

About William Ntiamoah

"My practice focusses on two narratives and draws a critical view on social, political and cultural issues. Often referencing colonial themes and playing with stereotypes and stigmas attached to being African, One side of my practice explores the contrasting relationship between my experiences growing up in Ghana and England and how this can help construct a new perspective from which Africa can be viewed from. From my own memories, usually recollected from old photographs and from documentations of life experiences of family members still living in Africa, I bring to life paintings that encourage the average individual to look further than the many assumptions and misconceptions associated with being African. I believe Just one new idea can change a person’s perception and thus sharing these experiences will help people see Africa from a positive viewpoint. Just like many contemporary artists today I believe painting remains a volatile source of information and education. It has the possibilities of changing one’s thoughts and opening new ideas.

On the other hand, my practice explores a much broader context. Influences from my life experiences, people I encounter, my mentor; Samuel Adoquei, and my search for meaning and beauty has driven this new approach. I am on a pursuit to learning to achieve beautiful skin tones; our basic human qualities that make us yet so beautiful and unique. My aim is to promote unity and world peace by highlighting the different nuances in our skin and flesh tones which may encourage us to see each other as true products of beauty rather than just white or black people, etc. I do this by painting people of all races and backgrounds. With this I can also learn a lot more about people, revealing the unseen qualities that they possess that make them so unique. I apply the techniques of the old masters to reveal these qualities."

Kwanzaa Collective UK *

Based in North Staffordshire, Kwanzaa Collective UK* is an association of artists, academics, and activists of colour. Through creativity, collective activism, and collaboration they aim to amplify the voices of Black and Brown people.

We would like to know what you thought of the work. Please send any feedback about this work to kwanzaacollectiveuk@gmail.com. Find us on social media. If you are interested in purchasing an artwork or commissioning William Attieku Ntiamoah, please contact them directly.

 

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