Nubuke tries out new ways of being

What regular patrons of Nubuke Foundation events at East Legon in Accra expect whenever news of an upcoming exhibition emerges,  is to see the works in a usual gallery setting.

We are obviously not in normal times now due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the almost 15-year-old private visual art and cultural institution will simultaneously host its next exhibition in its gallery and for the first time, on its online viewing rooms.

“While nothing can compare with the feelings and senses that are evoked when immersed within the atmosphere of a gallery setting, we hope to bring memorable in-person experiences and similar ones to our online audiences for the first time within our viewing rooms,” said Nubuke’s Director, Madan Odile Tevie, about the new exhibition slated to start on July 3.

According to the Nubuke boss, her outfit was keen to “experiment and try out new ways of being” as it held on to its remit of serving as a nexus for arts and culture across the country while supporting the artistic practice of Ghanaians: young, mid-career and experienced.

The July 3 exhibition, titled ‘Untitled’,  is a group one and comprises works by Esinam Damalie, Bernice Ameyaw, Yussif Mussah, Rufai Zakari, Winfred Nana Amoah and complimented by writings and doodling by Jo Nketia, a poet.

“Their works carry elements of sobriety, daring, insouciance, sassy energised vibes, hope and heartfelt desires.

“Almost all the works in the exhibition reflect deeply felt personal anxieties, fleeting relationships, rooted connectedness or even chance encounters with individuals and community,” a statement from Nubuke said.

Vivid assemblages created from medical texts, mobile money cards, fabric, water and food wrappers and packaging, hair extensions, bitumen and car parts which weave together contexts, histories and compelling narratives.

In line with the COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings, there will be no official opening event on  July 3. There will be entry protocols: 10 people will be allowed into the gallery at any time and groups are to contact the office to confirm entry time.

For the duration of the exhibition, online registration on Nubuke’s  website is encouraged with an indication of preferred time slots.

Details of visitors to the exhibition will be kept for Nubuke’s newsletter and passed on to relevant officials if needed for contact tracing.

“We strongly believe in the relevance of continued artistic production in these times and the importance of individuals  engaging with cultural programmes for their well-being and hence that of the society,” the statement added.