Joseph Awuah-Darko, also known as Okyntakinte, is a Ghanaian social entrepreneur and visual artist currently a resident artist at NIROX in Krugersdorp, South Africa. A Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 fellow in 2019, his contribution in the African visual arts scene is felt.
Awuah-Darko’s solo exhibition titled Soft Landing, opened on Saturday the 21st of October and is expected to run until the 15th of November at the NIROX’s Covered Space. The exhibition includes new sculptural, photographic, and tapestry works, employing a variety of mediums to explore the place of vulnerability and intimacy within everyday and ceremonial rituals.
Awuah-Darko is concerned about exploring identity and how we are bound by certain social structures, as well as our perception of ourselves. He looks into how words, thoughts, and other isms bind us. His artistic practice blends contemporary ideas with traditional techniques, and this is particularly evident in his engagement with the cathartic Ghanaian kente weaving method of Ashanti origin which has existed for centuries. Awuah-Darko’s vibrant tapestries often depict Afro-futuristic creature-like ‘sentinels,’ a motif recurring throughout his work. During his time at NIROX, he continues to deepen his exploration of woven philosophy within a more sculptural context.
The themes he explores also include the delicate balance between beauty and pain, depression, existentialism, and the pursuit of happiness. Awuah-Darko is also the recognised founder and director of the artist-led Noldor Residency program in Accra. This is an annual 4-week program which hosts an emerging African artist with limited access to resources to expand on their practice in a dedicated studio space and retreat in Accra.
