Today, the historic Ghana Club in Accra hosted the press conference for the James Barnor 95 Festival. This month-long celebration, running from May 29th to June 29th, honors the prolific career and 95th birthday of James Barnor, an iconic Ghanaian photographer renowned for his work documenting Ghana’s history during its early days of independence and as the personal photographer of Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president.

The Ghana Club, a place rich in history and culture, was a fitting venue for this significant event. In Ghana’s early days of independence, the club was frequented by prominent figures, including Nkrumah himself. Today, there are many Ghanaians who are unaware of the historic significance of this building. Holding the press conference and photo exhibition there was an opportunity to showcase such an iconic building.  Barnor even recalled coming to the Ghana Club with the likes of highlife musicians, politicians and other important figures frequented this place. “As I walked into the building I remembered…this is the place! I remember the day E.T. Mensah was playing here,” he said.

The atmosphere at the press conference was filled with anticipation and reverence for Barnor’s legacy. James Barnor, who has documented significant historical moments and personalities through his lens, shared some of his experiences and the love he holds for photography. He reminisced about his early days capturing pivotal moments in Ghanaian history and spoke of his personal connection to many of his photos. Barnor’s stories brought to life the richness of Ghana’s past, highlighting his unique ability to immortalize the essence of an era through his photographs.

Barnor, whose birthday is 6th June, 1929, told the press, “I use my birthday as an excuse to exhibit my work, always. It’s not just a birthday, but it’s to provide an occasion where Ghanaians will be involved in my work. I’m lucky to have passed 90…we are showing everything by putting extra things in [the event] to make it a festival and not just an exhibition or just a birthday.”

The photo exhibition at the Ghana Club features 35 works from Barnor’s extensive portfolio. These pieces, part of a collection owned by Ghanaian music producer Myx Quest, were first showcased in Ghana in November 2018 at the Jamestown Café during the visit of the former Prince of Wales to Accra. The exhibition provides a comprehensive overview of Barnor’s career, capturing moments of Ghana’s journey from colonial rule to independence and beyond. “I’m not the only photographer from Ghana,” Barnor acknowledged, “ There were photographers before me, luckily I come from a big family of photographers.”  With that he also said how grateful he is to have had a successful career as a photographer. 

The exhibition at the Ghana Club will be open to the public until June 30th, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Barnor’s work. The festival will also feature various events and activities in both Accra and Tamale, celebrating the photographer’s enduring influence and his contributions to the art world.

The James Barnor 95 Festival promises to be an enriching celebration, honoring a man whose vision and artistry have left a mark on Ghana and the world. For more information about the festival and a schedule of events, email festival@jamesbarnor.org.

Culture Fest is a celebration of the diversity of cultures in Ghana and Africa overall. The festival officially launched on July 11, 2023 at Pleasant Gardens in Dzorwulu. The festivities will run through August 20th and is made possible through the collaboration of The Organisation for African Development (OAD), UNESCO, the National Commission on Culture (NCC), and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).

The launch was attended by esteemed dignitaries including members of the diplomatic corps, Vice President of ECOWAS Tourism, Ambassador Nancy Sam, South African High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Grace Jeanet Mason, the Director of the Beyond the Return Secretariat, Annabelle McKenzie, and traditional leaders in the community. The opening event included performances, spoken work poetry and an exhibition featuring local arts and crafts. Culture Fest has an exciting lineup of events over the next few weeks. One of the highlights is the Female DJ competition, where talented women from across Ghana and beyond will showcase their skills and bring the crowd to life with their rhythms. This event not only celebrates the art of DJing but also promotes gender equality and empowers women in the music industry.

Another exciting feature of Culture Fest is the pre-launch of Food Goals. This initiative aims to promote healthy eating habits and showcase the diverse culinary traditions of Africa. As part of the festival, you’ll have the opportunity to explore different food gardens initiatives, which highlight sustainable agricultural practices and the importance of locally sourced ingredients.

Culture Fest is also the perfect platform to discover hidden talents. From traditional dance performances to contemporary art exhibitions, you’ll be amazed by the creativity and skill of artists and performers. The festival will culminate in the crowning of the Culture Queen, an esteemed title that recognizes an individual who embodies the spirit of African culture and heritage.

For food enthusiasts, Culture Fest offers the chance to savor the flavors of the Best African Food competitions. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey through the diverse cuisines of the continent. From mouthwatering stews to aromatic spices, you’ll experience the richness and variety of African gastronomy.

In addition to these captivating events, Culture Fest provides an all-you-can-eat buffet that will leave you craving for more. Indulge in the delectable dishes prepared by talented chefs, and immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Africa.

Culture Fest will continue through August 20th. It’s an opportunity to go beyond the surface and truly experience the beauty and diversity of Ghanaian and African culture. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, this festival promises to be a memorable journey into the heart and soul of the continent. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and join us at Culture Fest. Let us celebrate diversity, honor our heritage, and create lasting memories.

Story by: Ivy Prosper

The Damba Festival is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in northern Ghana.  It’s a two-part festival being both a traditional and a religious celebration.  Traditionally it’s been commemorated by the Dagomba, Gonja, Nanumba and Wala peoples of the northern parts of Ghana as a celebration of chiefs.  As a religious festival it’s observed by Muslims as the celebration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Mohammed.

Members of the community travel far and wide to come together and celebrate with festivities that include music, dancing, drumming, and men on horseback performing for the crowd.  Residents come dressed in their best clothing that showcases the beauty of the textiles that hail from the northern region. 

By: Ivy Prosper