Get inspired by Accra, Africa’s art capital

Accra is a hub for ancient history, creativity, culture and innovation, owing to the various cultures of the native Ghanaians flocking in. Its strategic geographical position, alongside the people’s warm hospitality, have resulted in a fast-growing economy.

Key areas include Osu, which has developed from a fishing and colonial town to a centre for culture, commerce and nightlife that operates 24/7, and Jamestown, one of the most historic and colourful districts in town. The area hosts the annual Chale Wote Street Art Festival and is home to some of Ghana’s most well-known painters and illustrators.

Be it fashion pieces, sustainability innovations, hospitality concepts or architectural design, the city has much to offer for inspiration and research. Lokko House, a unique Ghanaian establishment dedicated to cultivating and promoting Accra’s urban art, fashion and creative culture, is a go-to destination for contemporary high fashion and streetwear.

NuAfropolitan is a studio that serves as an immersive experience and a retail destination for lifestyle furniture that has been sustainably made and sourced in Africa. Tekura, which sources from sustainably managed forests, makes distinctive furniture and interior decor items that reinterpret traditional crafts and symbols from ancient tribes of Ghana.

The city’s creative scene has been bustling, with Ghana’s young creatives willing to test boundaries. Names such as Free The Youth Ghana, Ekow Barnes, Christie Brown and Studio One Eighty Nine have forced the global fashion industry to turn its attention to the country.

The buzzing art and culture scenes have attracted locals and tourists alike and events such as Afrochella and Accra Art Week are must-visits. Head to Art Africa, one of the leading galleries supporting artists of earlier generations who are considered masters of Ghanaian art. The gallery does its best to preserve the legacy of these artists, many of whom were founders of the contemporary art scene.

If dining in a vintage aircraft sounds inspiring, visit La Tante DC Restaurant, located near the Kotoka International Airport and nestled in an aeroplane from Ghana Airways. It completes the gastronomy experience with staples such as spiced tilapia with kenkey and jollof rice.

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