Spotlight Artist

Knyame Maison (Nana Ekow)

Midwest
Artist profile photo

Ancestors of Ancient Places I

Two abstract human figures made of small circles facing each other on a colorful background.

water, mixable oil, and oil on canvas

Do Not Believe Everything You Think

Abstract figure of a running person outlined in orange with circular patterns inside.

water and mixable oil on canvas

Edges of Consciousness

Colorful abstract painting with dotted patterns and overlapping human silhouettes.

water and mixable oil on canvas

Featured in New American Paintings1 / 3

Artist Statement

 As an artist, my motivation stems from a deep desire to convey emotions through visual designs that incorporate both spiritual impressions and factual symbols inspired by my Ghanaian heritage and everyday experiences.

My work is multilayered with various principal shapes—often spidery, silhouetted human figures interacting with symbols—all anchored within a neatly defined pictorial space that’s expressed by the weaving of color through an obsessive urge similar to pointillism.

In my creative process, I prioritize innovation, intuition, and spontaneity over technicality. Every sign, color, and image, however, is purposeful, not arbitrary or fanciful. They all represent real forms of a certain reality that I aim to convey. Even the traditional Ghanaian art forms that I incorporate are not exempt from this approach.

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