Kwabena Sekyi Appiah-nti

Bio

Kwabena Sekyi Appiah-nti is a talented Belgian-Ghanaian photographer based in Amsterdam, whose evocative work delves into the themes of boyhood, early manhood, and the multifaceted experience of Blackness. With a keen eye for the intricacies of community life often overshadowed by societal prejudice, Kwabena endeavors to challenge and transcend the clichés associated with these narratives. His groundbreaking project, **Golden Boy**, stands as a testament to this mission, celebrating Black boys and young men through a thoughtful exploration of their everyday lives. By immersing himself in their realities and capturing their behaviors and interests, Kwabena presents their stories with dignity, illuminating their pride, richness, and beauty—akin to the allure of gold itself. This remarkable series garnered recognition as part of **Foam Talent 2021** and was featured in **.tiff 2023** under “Emerging Belgian Photography” at FOMU. In a deeply personal quest to explore his identity and heritage, Kwabena journeyed to Ghana, his father's homeland. The result, **Sika Kokoo**, a photo book released in 2021, invites viewers on an intimate exploration of Ghana’s vibrant culture. Through a stunning collection of images, he juxtaposes contemporary life with cultural artifacts and traditional proverbs, weaving a narrative that bridges the past and present. Kwabena's work has gained significant acclaim, including a feature in **The New Black Vanguard** exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in 2022, where he participated in the “New Gazes II” segment developed in collaboration with Burberry. His artistic contributions continue to flourish, as he is currently a recipient of the prestigious **2023 Mondriaan Fonds**, allowing him to further his exploration of the **Golden Boy** series. Additionally, he is involved in the esteemed **Black Rock Senegal** artist residency, launched by renowned painter Kehinde Wiley, where he continues to expand his creative horizons.