In this episode, I speak with Mariella Franzoni, a Contemporary Art Specialist, Curator, and Consultant with over 15 years of international experience across Spain, Italy, and South Africa. Her diverse career spans academic research, teaching, and various pivotal roles in art organizations and events. Mariella dedicates herself to guiding art collectors, buyers, and brands, helping them navigate the complexities of the contemporary art scene.

Celebrating the 11th edition of the fair, she shares the theme for 2024 "Inhabiting the Wild," drawing from Jack Halberstam's intriguing perspectives on human interaction with nature. 

In this episode, I speak with Kunle Afolayan, a celebrated Nigerian filmmaker with an illustrious career in cinema.  Kunle has made significant contributions to Nollywood as a director, producer, and actor. Known for acclaimed films like "October 1" and "The Figurine," he's revered for his storytelling and cultural representation. With over two decades in the industry, Kunle has been instrumental in elevating African cinema on the global stage. 

Kunle is one of the visionary forces behind Nollywood's transformative industrial journey, he shares how his career change from banking to filmmaking launched an empire that includes a thriving film hub, academy, and resort. Kunle shares the legacy of his father, the drive to elevate African cinema's production values, and the strategic moves that led to a groundbreaking partnership with Netflix. His story is a testament to the power of authentic vision and unwavering dedication.

You connect with Kunle at https://www.instagram.com/kunleafo/ 

Discover the vibrant intersections of art and history as we journey through the Investec Cape Town Art Fair with curators Natasha Becker and Amogelang Maledu. The episode unfolds as a rich tapestry woven from their experiences, with Natasha's New York Assembly Room background and Amogelang's profound grasp of South African black popular cultures and time-based media. They unravel the narrative of art across generations, fostering a dialogue that transcends the traditional art historical narratives.

Art is a conversation that spans generations, and this episode proves just that as we examine how Natasha and Amogelang curate these dialogues. They share their expertise in creating resonating connections between artists, identifying common threads despite divergences in age and history. The discussion illuminates how these curatorial choices create a new lens through which we can appreciate the untold stories and cultural richness of South African and African art. As we explore the complex views of art and its generational impact, it's clear that Natasha and Amogelang's vision for the fair's curated series is a bold step towards a more nuanced and intersectional art world.

The significance of giving a platform to Black voices in critiquing Black artistry cannot be overstated, and we discuss the necessity for more inclusive storytelling in art practices. Natasha and Amogelang ponder the visionary potential of artists to influence society and our shared aspirations. 

In this episode I speak with Ella Bulley, a Material Designer known for her unique blend of textiles, products, art, and set design. Through a fusion of in-depth research, material experimentation, and traditional craftsmanship, Ella Bulley's design philosophy acts as a transformative force, turning basic materials into sophisticated designs. Her work has gone on to be exhibited at London Design Festival, Milan Design Week, Tendence, Ambiente, Sommerset House and the Design Museum, London. 

Ella's reflections on balancing a thriving professional life with deep personal ties in Ghana is a testament to the power of community and the enduring influence of heritage. Her dedication to sustainability and mentorship in material design is not only shaping her projects but also the minds of future visionaries.

Ella shares her passion for collaboration and her vision for documenting her Ghanaian heritage is as tangible as the art she creates.

You can connect with Ella at https://www.instagram.com/ellabulleystudio/ and on her website at  https://www.ellabulley.com/ 

In this episode, I speak with Terence Maluleke a remarkable Visual Developer and Fine Artist who has collaborated with industry giants like Walt Disney Animation Studios, Sony Pictures Animation, Netflix, and Triggerfish. Terence is also a co-founder of Kasi Sketchbook, an initiative dedicated to establishing drawing clubs in townships. His project inspires young artists to "Draw Your World" every day in their very own Kasi Sketchbooks. His art is deeply rooted in the figurative style and a celebration of his community. Terence's art, known for its vibrant colors and unique blend of styles, celebrates his community and has recently been exploring still-life themes. 

Terence also talks about his experience in animation and the importance of authentic representation in storytelling. He highlights his artistic process, the importance of intergenerational conversations in art, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, the inspiration behind artwork his titles, and his vision for the future.

You can connect with Terence at https://www.instagram.com/terencentsako/ 

In this episode, I speak with art curator Larry Ossei-Mensah who works with some of the most dynamic visual artists working today. As part of ongoing conversations on the podcast, we talk about his reflections on the evolving art scene in Ghana and his innovative projects for 2024 that promise to challenge cultural narratives and promote self-representation.

Larry sheds light on the upcoming "Cross Currents" exhibition in San Francisco and reveals the power of art to reframe representation and identity. 

You can connect with Larry at https://www.instagram.com/larryosseimensah/

In this episode, I speak with  Manjot Kaur, an artist whose work transcends the realms of speculative fiction and ecological narratives. Manjot's art challenges the traditional focus on humans as central figures, exploring the deeper meanings of humanity and its relationship with the non-human world. Her paintings are a journey into a future beyond conventional boundaries, envisioning a multispecies world where the concepts of queer and human are redefined. Join us as we explore these fascinating themes with Manjot.

Manjot breathes animation into her work, infusing it with sound and movement, turning paint and canvas into living, breathing experiences that challenge and charm in equal measure. Her installation work—merging art with ecology—demands we confront the political tensions surrounding our most vital resources: water, air, and food. 

This episode is more than just a discussion; it's an odyssey that traverses the rich textures of Indian miniature paintings, the solitary refinement of creation during a global pandemic, and the robust spirit required to navigate the Indian art landscape. 

Stephanie Boateng and Kwame Augustine join us to share the captivating journey behind their latest creation, 'Johnny.' This dark comedy-drama mini-series, premiering at  Silverbird Cinema in Ghana on Thursday the 11th of January 2024.

This episode also opens up a critical dialogue about the broader implications of cross-continental collaborations in the film industry. As Stephanie and Kwame navigate the intricacies of weaving together the UK and Ghana's creative sectors. They give us a sneak peek into the charismatic yet complex character of Johnny, whose layers of charm and trauma provide a fresh take on storytelling. Looking ahead, the conversation teases future projects that promise to invigorate not just the local film industry but resonate on a global stage, cementing the exciting trajectory of Ghana's creative future.

In this episode I speak with Maria Sosa a visionary artist whose work interrogates the complexities of history and contemporary social dynamics, particularly in the context of the colonization of America. Her art delves into profound themes such as the epistemicide of pre-Hispanic worlds, racism, sexism, and the often overlooked non-Western ways of life and knowledge.

Grounded in the concept of “ecology of knowledge,” Maria’s practice stands out for its collaborative nature and innovative production processes that transcend the traditional confines of an artist's studio. She recognizes that our present is a blend of simultaneous realities, and thus, her work emerges from a space of collaborative, speculative, and transdisciplinary inquiry.

Maria's profound reflections on the role of art in shaping our collective consciousness will leave an indelible mark on our discussion. We uncovered the layers of colonial history that continue to influence our perceptions of race, gender, and identity, while Maria's sculptures and performances boldly interrogate these legacies. 
We also speak about the healing power of art and the urgent need to reconstruct a sense of self and society amidst the backdrop of historical violence. 

You can connect with Maria at https://www.instagram.com/maria_sosa_ruiz/

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to introduce Heather Agyepong, a British Ghanaian visual artist, performer, actor, and maker, based in London. Her art practice, deeply concerned with mental health and wellbeing, the diaspora, combines visual art and performance to create an engaging experience for both herself and her audience. Heather's unique approach involves re-imagination to engage communities of interest by placing the self as a central focus within the image. 

Our conversation illuminates the critical role of community and journaling in honing our crafts, and the liberating realization that our talents are not limited to a single expression.
We also talk about the realities of a digital era brimming with distractions, focusing on the art of intentionality and boundary-setting. Heather shares her strategies for fostering creativity and maintaining focus in a world cluttered with notifications providing practical insights for fellow artists and creators. 

You can connect with Heather at https://www.heatheragyepong.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/heathatrottlives/