The exhibition Sliced From History was opened by Frances Ademola, a renowned gallerist and art lover, and celebrates Florence Benson, the first Ghanaian art collector to voluntarily make her collection available to the general public.

With calls for the establishment of a national collection spearheaded by the Nubuke Foundation, this exhibition provided visitors with a rare opportunity to view works by pioneering contemporary Ghanaian artists, such as A.O. Bartimeus, Ablade Glover, Amon Kotei, Ato Delaquis, Philip Amonoo, E.O. Dartey, George Hughes, Robert Aryeetey, and many more. Additionally, the exhibition included pieces by Nigerian artists Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ini Brown, David Dale, Kolade Oshinowo, and Abiodun Olaku, as well as exquisitely sculpted Ife and Benin bronzes that offered insights into the arts and heritage of the Yoruba people of Nigeria.

The exhibition spans over 40 years of collected works, showcasing early contemporary Ghanaian art alongside emerging artists. Florence Benson’s passion for collecting was not limited by geographical boundaries, resulting in a collection that bridges Ghanaian and Nigerian contemporary art, as well as antiques.

What began as a personal passion for Florence Benson has culminated in a collection comparable to a national treasure. Chronicling the trajectory of contemporary art in Ghana, this exhibition underscores the contributions of a true cultural custodian. Benson’s dedication has preserved the arts and heritage of Ghana for posterity, filling a critical gap in the cultural landscape at a time when the national collection at the Arts Centre in Accra has stagnated and suffered neglect.

The growth of the art industry depends on the efforts of multiple players—artists, gallerists, museums, financiers, writers, critics, historians, and academics. By supporting artistic production, Florence Benson has significantly contributed to the flourishing of the entire industry.

This private collection, now open to the public, provides an appreciation of the high quality of artistic production in Ghana and West Africa. It chronicles a shared history that deserves to be celebrated and told.
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Nubuke Foundation, Accra 2024