Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, is a flourishing center for creativity and art. With a rich and diverse art scene, the city boasts numerous contemporary art galleries that celebrate the work of talented local and international artists.
If you’re an art enthusiast visiting Accra, here are 10 must-visit art galleries to add to your list:
1. Nubuke Foundation
The Nubuke Foundation, located in East Legon, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of contemporary art and culture in Ghana. The foundation’s exhibitions and programs are designed to foster creativity and inspire cultural dialogue. Visitors can expect a wide range of works from both established and emerging artists, as well as events that delve into the intersections of art, culture, and society.
2. Gallery 1957
Situated at the prestigious Kempinski Hotel in Accra, Gallery 1957 showcases the work of artists from across Africa and beyond. Established by Marwan Zakhem on Ghana’s Independence Day in 2016, this gallery has become a go-to destination for art lovers. Its exhibitions are engaging and thought-provoking, ensuring an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.
3. ADA \ Contemporary Art Gallery
Founded in 2020 by contemporary art advisor Adora Mba, ADA is dedicated to supporting and nurturing fresh talent through carefully curated exhibitions. Located on the ground floor of Alto Tower at Villagio Vista, ADA provides a platform for new artists to present extensive bodies of work. The gallery has become a key destination for discovering emerging voices in contemporary African art.
4. Amba Gallery
A recent addition to Accra’s art scene, Amba Gallery highlights part of the extensive private Pan-African art collection of Mr. Amadu Baba. The gallery features African art spanning more than four decades, showcasing ancient design forms such as wooden sculptures, bronze works, and traditional textiles like Kente, mud cloth, and batik. Dedicated to preserving African art heritage, Amba Gallery is a place for education and connection for all art lovers.
5. Institute Museum of Ghana
The Institute Museum of Ghana is a space devoted to contemporary African and diasporic art and also serves as an artist residency under the “Noldor Artist Residency” program. Situated in a former pharmaceutical factory in central Accra, the museum displays works from its resident artists and pieces from founder Joseph Awuah-Darko’s private collection. The public can visit the space during exhibitions and enjoy exclusive access to the creative processes of its artists.
6. Dikan Center
The Dikan Center, founded by Ghanaian photographer and filmmaker Paul Ninson, is a unique establishment housing over 30,000 books—the largest collection of its kind in Ghana. Equipped with a photo studio and classrooms, the center offers workshops and fellowship programs for African documentarians and visual artists. Its exhibition space regularly hosts shows by African and diasporic artists, making it an essential visit for visual artists and art enthusiasts alike.
7. The National Museum of Ghana
Renowned for its rich collection, the National Museum of Ghana holds a variety of historical and contemporary art pieces that showcase the country’s heritage. Visitors can explore exhibitions featuring sculptures, paintings, textiles, and archaeological finds that tell the story of Ghana’s artistic and cultural history. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the roots and evolution of Ghanaian art.
8. La Gallery Accra
Located in the bustling heart of the city, La Gallery Accra is an important space for contemporary art exhibitions. Known for promoting both emerging and established artists, the gallery hosts a range of shows that feature diverse artistic expressions. Its commitment to fostering dialogue and creativity has made it a staple of Accra’s art landscape.
9. Artists Alliance Gallery
Founded by renowned artist Ablade Glover, this three-story gallery houses an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional African art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles. This beachside gallery provides a mosaic of works of art created by numerous personalities with diverse backgrounds.
10. Dot.ateliers
Dot.ateliers is a contemporary space/ residency nestled in South Labadi that emphasizes innovation and interdisciplinary art practices. By showcasing forward-thinking exhibitions and fostering collaborations among creatives, Dot.ateliers has established itself as a hub for new and experimental art forms. The gallery’s programming is designed to encourage community building, challenge conventional norms and invite audiences to engage with art in fresh and exciting ways.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the art world, these galleries in Accra offer diverse and enriching experiences that will leave you inspired
