The Manhyia Palace Museum has celebrated a number of distinguished Ghanaian and international creatives for their remarkable contributions to the growth of the arts and culture industry.
The recognition ceremony was held at the Manhyia Palace Jubilee Auditorium in Kumasi during the second edition of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Art Awards, organised in partnership with UNESCO and other collaborators.
Among the Ghanaian personalities honoured were renowned contemporary artist Ibrahim Mahama, founder of the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art and Red Clay Studio in Tamale; installation artist and painter Yaw Owusu; veteran painters Larry Otoo and Victor Butler; as well as portrait artist Afia Prempeh.
The event also recognised international figures including Seychelles contemporary artist Leon Radegonde, African Curator at the British Museum Julie Hudson, and curator Osei Bonsu for their impact on the global creative arts landscape.
Awardees received plaques from the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, together with Lady Julia Osei Tutu. They were additionally presented with branded rechargeable ICT diaries from Justice and Repair.
Speaking at the ceremony, Director of the Manhyia Palace Museum, Ivor Agyeman-Duah, noted that the occasion coincided with 85 years since the announcement of the passing of a former Asante King. He commended the 2026 honourees for their dedication to advancing the creative arts sector.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Dzifa Gomashie, described the creative economy as a major force for national development, job creation, youth empowerment and cultural influence. She stated that the vision behind the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Art Awards strongly supports the preservation and promotion of Ghanaian and African artistic heritage.
UNESCO Country Representative Edmond Moukala also highlighted the importance of art in preserving history and shaping the future, adding that the awards initiative was helping to strengthen support systems and visibility for artists.
Several dignitaries attended the ceremony, including KNUST Vice Chancellor Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, President of Justice and Repair Yvonne Darkwa Poku, Hungarian Ambassador to Ghana H.E. Tamas Feher, EU Ambassador to Ghana Rune Skinnebach, and former Ghana Ambassador to France Johanna O. Svanikier.
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