Amina Kassim stands as a towering figure in the contemporary art scene, both in Ghana and across the globe. Known for her vibrant and thought-provoking artworks, Amina skillfully weaves the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture with the complex narratives of the diaspora.

Her works, celebrated for their depth and cultural resonance, explore themes of identity, belonging, and the multifaceted experiences of African immigrants.

As a nominee for this year’s prestigious National Creative Arts Award, Amina’s influence and dedication to her craft are unmistakable.

Myjoyonline Interview:

Myjoyonline: Amina, congratulations on your recent nomination for the National Creative Arts Award. What does this recognition mean for you as an artist?

Amina Kassim: Thank you very much. This nomination is incredibly meaningful to me. It's a validation of my work and the stories I strive to tell through my art. It’s an affirmation that the narratives of the Ghanaian diaspora and our cultural heritage have a vital place in the global art scene. This recognition encourages me to continue exploring these themes and to push the boundaries of how art can connect and communicate across different cultures.

Myjoyonline: Your artwork, such as "The Myth of Return," has received particular attention for its portrayal of the immigrant experience. Can you tell us more about what inspires you to choose such themes?

Amina Kassim: My inspiration comes from personal experiences and the stories I encounter within the Ghanaian community abroad. "The Myth of Return," for instance, was inspired by a conversation with a Senegalese Uber driver whose dreams of returning home have been continually deferred. These stories of migration, the emotional conflict between the homeland and the new world, resonate deeply with me. By bringing these personal and intimate stories into my art, I hope to offer perspectives that are often overlooked in mainstream narratives.

Myjoyonline: How do you think your work impacts the way people view the concept of home and identity, especially in the context of migration?

Amina Kassim: I believe my work challenges and expands the traditional notions of home and identity. Through my paintings, I aim to show that home is not just a physical place but an emotional, cultural, and sometimes conflicted space. My artworks invite viewers to reflect on their own notions of belonging and identity and to appreciate the complexity of the immigrant experience. It’s about creating a dialogue and perhaps a shared understanding through the universal language of art.

Myjoyonline: With your focus on the diaspora, how do you stay connected to your roots in Ghana while also appealing to a global audience?

Amina Kassim: Staying connected to my Ghanaian roots is intrinsic to my identity and my work. Even as I address universal themes, the essence of Ghana—its colours, rhythms, and stories—is always present. I also engage with communities and participate in cultural exchanges that enrich my understanding and expression. This balance allows my art to resonate both locally and globally, providing a bridge between cultures.

Myjoyonline: Your piece "Bathroom Salon" explores the intimate act of hair care among women of African descent. What was your aim with this artwork, and how has it been received?

Amina Kassim: "Bathroom Salon" is very close to my heart because it delves into the everyday practices that define and strengthen our cultural ties, even in foreign lands. The aim was to showcase the beauty and resilience of these private moments, turning a simple act of hair braiding into a powerful symbol of identity and sisterhood. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, especially from women who see their own experiences reflected in the artwork. It has sparked conversations about identity, beauty, and the ways we maintain our culture away from home.

Myjoyonline: "Game Night" captures the joy of traditional games within the diaspora community. Can you elaborate on how this work speaks to cultural preservation and adaptation?

Amina Kassim: "Game Night" is about more than just playing games; it’s about the preservation of our heritage in an environment that constantly evolves. By depicting a group of friends gathered around an Oware board, I wanted to highlight how traditional games act as a lifeline to our roots while also fostering a sense of community abroad. This piece has resonated with many because it celebrates the joy and continuity of our cultural practices, showing that despite geographical changes, the essence of who we are remains intact. It's a celebration of adaptability and the enduring nature of our traditions.

Myjoyonline: Both "Bathroom Salon" and "Game Night" focus on communal and familial themes. How important is the concept of community in your work?

Amina Kassim: Community is fundamental in my work. I believe art should not only represent individual experiences but also the collective spirit that binds us together. Both pieces emphasize the role of the community in sustaining cultural practices and providing emotional support. They reflect my belief that our strength as a diaspora comes from our ability to come together, share our cultures, and build new traditions, even in far-off places. These artworks are my tribute to the communities that have been a source of inspiration and strength throughout my journey as an artist.

Myjoyonline: How do you choose the specific cultural elements to feature in your works, such as the Oware game in "Game Night"?

Amina Kassim: Choosing cultural elements for my artworks involves a lot of research and personal reflection. I look for symbols and activities that are rich in history and meaning, yet familiar and accessible to those within and outside the Ghanaian community. With "Game Night," the Oware game was a natural choice because it’s a game that many Africans grow up playing. It’s not just a game; it’s a part of our cultural fabric. I aim to connect these universal experiences with specific cultural symbols to create art that educates, inspires, and resonates widely.

Myjoyonline: What message do you hope to convey through your artworks to the international community, particularly regarding the Ghanaian and broader African experience?

Amina Kassim: Through my artworks, I hope to convey the richness, diversity, and vibrancy of Ghanaian and African cultures. I want to challenge stereotypes and provide new perspectives on the African experience. More importantly, I aim to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and dynamism of the African spirit. Whether it's through the playful scene of "Game Night" or the intimate setting of "Bathroom Salon," each piece invites the international community to understand and appreciate the depth and breadth of our cultural expressions and our contributions to the global tapestry.

Myjoyonline:

We wish you the very best of luck in the race for this year's creative arts award.

Amina Kassim: Thank you