Kwesi Kwarteng is an Ghanaian born artist based in Newark NJ. He mostly works using textiles from various cultures and sewing them to make his pieces. Having a painting background, Kwesi approaches his work like he would his paintings. He considers the fabrics as the paint he uses in making these works and sewing as the brush that brings them together. He dyes canvases using different dying processes then combining them with textiles to create his works.
He is interested in what function these fabrics plays in the lives of the people who use them and attempts to connect these interests in his works.
Creators’ Universe: Kwesi Kwarteng
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Creators’ Universe is a documentary series that goes behind the scenes with some of today’s best working artists. We learn about their creative process, what inspires them, and the importance of being bold.
As a Ghanaian what one wears is a very essential part of daily life. It could tell if one is morning or if one is happy. If one has survived a tragedy or if one is going through a trial.
Fabric is an unspoken language that conveys messages to those who know – an example is the Kente cloth from Ghana which features predominantly in many of his works.
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Over the last decade immigration has become a major part of the socio-political discourse of many developed countries.
Anti-immigration and xenophobia is very prevalent , he seeks to address this through his work.
The goal? to champion multiculturalism.
Kwesi has a BFA from the School of Visual Arts, NY; he’s had two solo shows and taken part in several group exhibitions.
His works are in private collections in the US, Germany, and Ghana.
He is a recent recipient of the creative catalyst grant award.
