Celebrated Ghanaian contemporary artist Ibrahim Mahama has been named a Laureate at the second edition of the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Art Awards in recognition of his exceptional impact on visual arts in Ghana and across the world.
The awards ceremony took place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at the Otumfuo Golden Jubilee Hall within the Manhyia Palace.
Mahama, who founded the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art, Red Clay and Nkrumah Voli-ni, was recognised for promoting African contemporary art and establishing creative spaces that encourage artistic growth and cultural preservation.
The event attracted over 500 attendees, including artists, curators, diplomats, university leaders and representatives from international cultural organisations.
Organised by the Manhyia Palace Museum in partnership with UNESCO and Justice and Repairs, the awards celebrated artists and curators from Ghana, Britain and Seychelles for their influence on contemporary art and cultural heritage.
Other honourees included installation artist Yaw Owusu, painters Victor Butler and Larry Otoo, portrait artist Afia Prempeh, Seychelles artist Leon Raddegonde, British Museum curator Julie Hudson and curator Osei Bonsu.
Organisers indicated that the awards programme will continue over the next decade, with a focus on recognising artists whose works significantly influence contemporary African art locally and internationally.
They also noted that the selection process involved both Ghanaian and international jury members to maintain transparency, credibility and international relevance.
The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Art Awards was introduced in May 2025 by the Manhyia Palace Museum to celebrate both traditional and modern African visual arts. Its maiden edition, known as the Kings Art Prize, honoured 10 iconic African artists and was praised as a significant step in promoting Pan-African cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
Source: citinews
