LOS ANGELES — Nestled in the bustling environment of Los Angeles, Amoako Boafo’s exhibition, I Bring Home With Me at Roberts Projects, offers a tranquil escape from the nearby hustle of Hollywood. Celebrated Vienna-based artist Amoako Boafo opens a window to his native Accra, Ghana, through this new showcase. Featuring 22 portraits, including two self-portraits, Boafo employs his distinct technique of using collaged finger trails to replace conventional brushstrokes, introducing the audience to the individuals and elements that define his world.
This exhibition marks several firsts for Boafo in the United States. It’s the debut of his use of embroidery in his portraits, adding an extra layer to his subjects. Additionally, it is his initial collaboration in the U.S. with Glenn DeRoche of the Accra-based DeRoche Projects. DeRoche crafted a life-sized replica of Boafo’s Accra studio within the gallery, initially intended to be built with Ghanaian teakwood but ultimately constructed from locally sourced plywood painted black due to tariff issues.
Having visited the exhibition twice, the transformation of the atmosphere over time was palpable. The gallery adopted a warm, earthy scent that, while likely not identical to Ghana, helped envelop visitors in the experience. DeRoche’s design not only mimics Boafo’s studio but also fosters a communal feel, with spaces inviting visitors to linger among the art. A poem by Ghanaian poet Yielu, titled ‘A Living Space,’ continuously plays, enhancing the immersive environment.
Boafo’s technique of painting with his fingers adds a tactile quality to his work, bringing the portraits to life. The use of rich colors like blues, blacks, and browns in his brushwork imitates the depth and complexity of skin tones. The exhibit predominantly features portraits of women, exuding a sense of feminine strength and community, creating sanctuaries within the space. Boafo seems to celebrate the essence of homemaking, a theme that resonates deeply with those who have experienced diaspora.
In these portraits, Boafo lays bare his roots, inviting viewers to connect with his origins. A striking image, ‘Floral Shirt,’ watches over the space, inviting visitors to feel at home within the recreated living room. As one engages with the art, a row of female figures offers acknowledgment and welcomes the viewer into their world, embodying the narrative of constructing a home wherever life may lead.
