Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is hosting an inspiring solo debut exhibition of the notable contemporary artist, Amoako Boafo, on view now through September 10, 2023. This marks Boafo’s first solo show in Seattle, and the debut couldn't be more captivating.

The Ghanaian artist, renowned for his expressive portraits that depict the richness of Black life globally, is celebrated in this exhibition titled “Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks.” This groundbreaking showcase curated by Larry Ossei-Mensah comprises more than 30 of Boafo’s works, each bearing his distinctive finger-painted textures and deeply saturated hues, created between 2016 and 2022.

Rooted in the concept of “double consciousness” from W.E.B. Du Bois’s seminal 1903 work, "The Souls of Black Folk", Boafo’s portraits delve into the intricacies of Black subjectivity and joy. His paintings, often depicting figures in intimate domestic settings, audaciously invite the viewer into the depth and diversity of Black life around the globe. Through their calm gaze and radiant smiles, they assert their presence, power, and beauty, offering an innovative lens through which to view Black identity.

“Soul of Black Folks” begins with the artist’s self-portraits, born out of a cathartic response to the racism and lack of support he faced while living in Vienna, Austria. As viewers journey through the exhibit, they encounter portraits of Boafo’s friends, family, and celebrated cultural figures. These confident figures, rendered in larger-than-life scale, are juxtaposed with vivid colors and patterns that amplify their presence. Boafo's work transforms the familiar confines of the canvas into a celebration of Black identity and resistance.

Designed as an immersive experience, the exhibition also includes a digital tour, narrated by the artist, which delves into the perspectives and insights that led to each creation. To provide even deeper immersion, an artist-curated Spotify playlist offers visitors a glimpse into the soundscape of Boafo’s studio, where music serves as a central inspiration for his portraits.

Born in 1984 in Osu, Accra, Ghana, Boafo's educational journey began at the Ghanatta College of Art and Design, followed by studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna, Austria. He’s been recognized with awards such as the Walter Koschatzky Art Prize and the STRABAG Art Award International. In 2020, his collaboration with Dior for their Spring/Summer 2021 Men’s Collection brought his work to a wider audience. Boafo’s artwork is cherished by public and private collectors and has found homes in the most prestigious museums worldwide.

Curator Larry Ossei-Mensah, a Bronx-native of Ghanaian descent, believes in art as a vehicle for redefining how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. He has curated numerous exhibitions worldwide, featuring artists like Steve McQueen, Nick Cave, and Catherine Opie. His collaboration with Boafo on "Soul of Black Folks" is a testament to his mission of driving racial equity in the art world by centering creatives of color.

SAM is delighted to bring Boafo’s stunning portraits to Seattle audiences. "Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks" marks a significant moment for the museum and its audience, offering a nuanced representation of Black life and art history.

An exhibition catalogue, titled "Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks" and published by Cameron Books, will be available for purchase at the SAM Shop. This comprehensive study of Boafo's process and career includes original contributions from leading scholars and artists, further enriching the exhibition experience.

The Seattle Art Museum invites locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in this potent exploration of Black life, seen through the powerful gaze of Boafo’s evocative subjects. Plan your visit today and experience the world through the eyes of one of the most exciting contemporary artists of our time.