A Journey Into the World of the Unseen and Unknown with Nana Danso.

Nana Danso Awuah-Asante also known as Artsoul Kojo, is a self-taught Ghanaian contemporary artist whose art has recently come under scrutiny following his collaboration with fashion brand Off-White. Nana Danso’s artform mimics childlike strokes and uncomplicated shapes that brings to bare simple but complex ideologies of the unknown.

In this interview with Creative Magazine, we delve into the mind of the Ghanaian artist whose work bridges the gap between cultural heritage and global resonance. With a unique ability to translate mythical and spiritual concepts into striking pieces, he creates art that not only celebrates his roots but also invites audiences worldwide to explore the unseen. From the world of fine art to his recent ventures into fashion, which includes his notable collaboration with Off-White, Nana Danso has captivated diverse audiences with his symbolic, energy-infused works. We discuss his journey, the themes that shape his creativity, and the inspirations behind his art. He also shares valuable advice for emerging Ghanaian artists aspiring to reach global recognition and work with major brands, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery, connection, and persistence.

Nana Danso in a T-shirt from the ‘23 Smallgod Collection

CREATIVE MAGAZINE: As a Ghanaian artist with a global presence, how have international audiences responded to your cultural roots influencing your art?

Nana Danso: Most of my ideas share certain cultural and traditional inspirations but there’s also a universal idea to it where most people are able to connect to easily. However, the fundamental idea behind what I do is to talk about a world that hasn’t been experienced with the physical eyes before, mythologies, lifestyle, thinking and vision. I focus on translating that world to a physical version that people can experience with their eyes. I think people globally share similar ideas when it comes to belief in angels, spirits, ghosts and things of the unseen.

C.M: What emotions or themes do you hope to convey through your paintings?

N.D: I want people to use my art as a gateway into the unseen world because that’s what influences most of our ideas. We kind of think from an imaginative space before it becomes reality. I am very focused on getting people to understand that there’s an energy in the unseen world that when harnessed, can actualize things. Some of these energies have wide stories and philosophies that can shape our ideas to be structured for our living.

C.M: There is now a clear intersection between art and fashion. What has your journey leading up to being a partaker of such a phenomenon been like?

N.D: It’s a fresh experience in terms of global popular fashion. I wouldn’t say it’s a bit overwhelming but rather an introduction to an audience that I haven’t experienced before I guess. Under normal circumstances I come across an art related audience but this time it’s people who see art in their daily fashion wear. I recently completed the collaboration with Off-White so I’m yet to see how people feel about the art we did and how people are utilizing it on a daily basis. In a global perspective, I think people generally enjoyed seeing my art in a fashion setting because I’ve been working for a while now and I feel like that’s the kind of space I was yet to be introduced to and now I’m there. It’s a nice experience but also a challenge to figure out what to do next.  

C.M: Having sold your paintings around the world, what do you think resonates most with collectors and fashion brands like Off-White about your work?

N.D: I include a lot of codes and symbols that harness energy so when you are in tune and curious about such, you travel there mentally. That’s the experience that most people have when they come into contact with my art, making them want to ask a lot of questions like why is this color being used and so on. It also entails a lot of characters, expressions and ideas that are relatable. It is easy for me to communicate that and get others to understand me.

Nana Danso pictured at the Smallworld HQ

C.M: What advice would you give to young Ghanaian artists who aspire to have their work recognized internationally and potentially collaborate with major brands?

N.D: When you start doing creative jobs, it’s endless - there’s no point where you are very successful. There’s a point where you wouldn’t have to do so much your ideas done and that’s where most creatives try to get to. The main goal should be to find a way to not stop doing what you’re doing, learn new things, connect with people, ask questions and ask for help when you need it. Once you get introduced to the world, you realize there are so many things that come to play before things happen so if you’re not connecting with influential people and asking for help, when necessary, you might have all you need to be successful around you without realizing. It starts with figuring yourself out and knowing what you want to do and the direction in which you’re heading.