Musah Swallah is a visual artist hailing from Accra, Ghana, where he was born and raised. For Musah, art serves as a potent tool for self-expression, societal awareness, and the transformation of communities. His artistic portfolio includes paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works that weave together narratives that resonate with African identity, cultural values, and the tapestry of daily life.
Currently, Musah’s creative focus lies in the realm of repurposed materials, as he paints on wooden panels, plywood, paper, and canvases to craft layered mixed-media portraits. His current body of work delves into the intricate and multifaceted transnational identities of the African Diaspora, bridging the gaps between continents and cultures.
In May 2020, Musah Swallah completed a residency and exhibited his work at the BronxArtSpace, a testament to his growing influence in the art world. His art has also graced the walls of renowned venues such as Calabar Gallery (NYC), the Stimson Center (DC), Vivid Gallery (DC), and the Art All Night DC events from 2018 to 2020.
Musah’s journey as an artist has not been limited to his artistic pursuits but has also included his role as a mentor and advocate for his community. As a newly arrived immigrant, he engaged with the New York Foundation for the Arts Immigrant Mentoring Program, where he received mentorship that helped him establish a successful career in the arts. Musah’s commitment to giving back led him to co-found Nima Muhinmanchi Art and serve as its Artistic Director. Through this initiative, he shared his expertise by teaching drawing and painting to youth from his community while spearheading art initiatives aimed at promoting urban transformation.
Beyond his local community in Ghana, Musah’s artistic reach has extended across borders. He has taught and exhibited in various parts of the United States, including NYC, DC, and Maryland. His international presence includes participation in residencies in Italy, Kenya, and Cote d’Ivoire. Musah has collaborated with influential institutions such as the Foundation for Contemporary Art – Ghana, Alliance Française d’Accra, Accra[dot]Alt, Nubuke Foundation, Invisible Borders Trans-African Photographers, and the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre. He has been a consistent muralist at the Chale Wote Street Art Festival since 2011, leaving his creative imprint on the vibrant cultural tapestry of Accra.
Musah Swallah’s art serves as a bridge between cultures, a vessel for storytelling, and a catalyst for transformation. His dedication to mentorship and community engagement is a testament to his commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists and driving positive change through creativity.
Emmanuel Whyte –
These works made my heart jump, and I haven’t even seen the show yet! I will tomorrow though! Rock on will the excellent execution and continued success.