Virtual Realities - Urban Navigations: Exploring Self in the Digital Era

26 April - 25 May 2024

Berj Art Gallery is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with AMY Projects for an extraordinary exhibition titled "Virtual Realities, Urban Navigations: Exploring Self in the Digital Era."

This exhibition features the compelling works of Kwabena Fordjour and Gandor Collins. Here, Fordjour's representations of Ghanaian transportation culture, coupled with Collins' investigation into humanity's engagement with technology, provide spectators with a multifaceted view into the exhibition but also Ghana as a whole.

Kwabena Fordjour's artistic practice is deeply rooted in his deep understanding of Ghana's rich transportation culture. His artistry is quite connected to his keen grasp of Ghana's diverse transportation customs. Through his paintings, we as viewers travel with him through the lively streets and busy bus terminals, where the daily cadences intertwine with the enduring practice of communal travels. Drawing inspiration from the colours of Ghana's landscapes and the bustling energy of city life, his acrylic masterpieces resonate with authenticity and vitality, capturing the essence of everyday experiences with a rather impressive clarity.

In contrast, Gandor Collins pushes the boundaries of his artistry with his innovative fusion of art and technology. He explores the relationship between humanity and the digital realm, through spirited compositions and interactive elements like QR codes, offering viewers a peek into how modern existence is progressing through his eyes. His visionary approach challenges conventional perceptions of space and technology, blurring the lines between physical and virtual realities with unparalleled sophistication and style.

However, despite their distinct approaches, Fordjour and Collins share a profound commitment to capturing the essence of human experience in all its complexity. Both artists use their work as a means of exploring the intricacies of everyday life, from the shared bonds of community to the ever-present influence of technology. Through their different artistic expressions, Fordjour and Collins encourage viewers of their exhibition to reflect on their own position within the evolving prospect of modern life, igniting dialogues and prompting fresh perspectives on the human journey.

Here at Berj, the streets of Ghana meet the future, thanks to the combined talents of Kwabena Fordjour and Gandor Collins. From the busy streets of Ghanaian cities to the landscapes of digital exploration, each artwork offers its own perspective on how complex modern life can be. While we reflect on the shared experiences of daily commuting or contemplate the transformative power of technology, they invite us all to engage with their art on a deeper level, thus being a catalyst for sparking conversations and inspiring new insights into the human experience.