(NEWARK, NJ) -- Akwaaba Gallery in Newark presents Raphael Ogoe's "The Unveiling," from March 9 to April 27, 2024. This is a collection of paintings that incorporate images of African masks and references to the history and mythologies of Ghana, his homeland.
“In the context of Black America, masks have played a crucial role in shaping the identities of individuals and communities,’ said Ogoe, who lives in Edison. “As people of African descent navigate the complexities of diasporic experiences, these masks serve as potent symbols of resilience, resistance, and cultural continuity. They are reminders of our ancestors, who persevered through centuries of oppression and displacement.’’
The title of the exhibition evokes how masks can reveal identity, in addition to concealing it, a concept that influenced Ogoe during the COVID-19 pandemic but also refers to the meaning of African masks and how they are used in rituals.
“Once you put on the mask, you’re putting on the identity of your ancestors. But you also become more yourself. They speak through you,” explained Ogoe. “In these works, something is being masked, but at the same time, something is growing and flourishing. The mask is an outside reflection of what’s happening inside.’’
Ogoe is a native of Ghana who came to the U.S. as a teen. At his Ghanaian school, he studied visual arts but later trained to be an architect, receiving degrees from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). Since then, he has focused on architecture, where he has built a successful career, but in recent years began devoting more time to his art.
His artwork is a part of the installation at Newark Airport, Terminal A, Trenton Train Station, Google Headquarters in New York City and Sandbox in Accra Ghana. His work has been exhibited at the Morristown Performing Arts Center, Triloft in New York City, Novartis in East Hanover, NJ and a solo exhibition at Artworks in Trenton, NJ.
Ogoe’s sketch renderings, graphic design, and digital modeling pieces have been featured in the Architectural Record and Architect Newspaper. He has also been profiled in publications such as Omenka Magazine, Flash Africa Magazine and the Ghanaian Spectator.
The pieces in the show were created with pen and oil paint. They range in size from 20 X 20 inches to from 40 inches by four feet. Most were made during the past few years, with the pandemic being an especially prolific time for Ogoe.
Some paintings represent figures from African history, especially women, who often fought in battles. A portrait of Queen Yaa Asantewaa– a politician, intellectual and warrior who ruled the Ashanti region in the late 19th and early 20th century depicts her in battle gear.
When the British invaded Ghana, they tried to plunder the golden stool that confers royalty, explained Ogoe. Their attempt prompted Queen Yaa Asantewaa to lead an army into battle, defeating the British, who, unlike her soldiers, were armed with guns. The 1900 conflict was known as the War of the Golden Stool.
“It was one of the few times the British actually lost,’’ said Ogoe.
Past and present–in Africa, America, and diasporic communities worldwide– are all themes of “The Unveiling.’’
“By exploring the intersections of tradition and innovation, spirituality and creativity, this exhibition invites us to reflect on the profound connections that unite us across time and space, transcending borders, and boundaries to reveal the shared humanity that binds us all,’’ said Ogoe.
But he also hopes to leave room for the viewer to find meaning. ”I want people to take from it what they take from it. I don’t want to impose any interpretation. I want it to be inspirational. We all have certain things we are masking but it’s good for us to unveil them.’’
An opening will be held on Saturday, March 9th from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Akwaaba Gallery is located at 509 S. Orange Avenue in Newark, New Jersey. The gallery opened on February 15, 2019 and is a hidden Newark gem located in the historic Fairmont neighborhood. The gallery features diverse and eclectic contemporary works of art in various mediums. Akwaaba's mission is to engage the community and public with exhibitions featuring emerging local, regional, national and international artists. Akwaaba Gallery is quickly becoming the art hub of the West Ward and a welcoming venue to the community and surrounding towns.
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