Signed Ghanaian Impressionist Painting of a Woman on a Boat, "Nzulezu"

“My name is Emmanuel Kwesi Nyarkoh. I am a painter. I was born in 1972 in the central region of Ghana. My friends describe me as interesting, creative and versatile.

“I became interested in art when I was a child and majored in graphics at the Ghanatta College of Art. My greatest fulfillment comes from the excitement of completing a painting and seeing that people appreciate it.

“Shifting from graphics to painting was a challenge. To master my art, I had to be sure I was interested in pursuing painting and then I quit graphics and gave it my all. For over a year, I worked to improve my painting skills, and had to figure out how to earn a living. I was determined to continue to get where I am today.

“Since then, I’ve taught other promising students. I’ve written two books about basic drawing, shading and painting, which are widely used in Ghanaian schools.

“Once, a buyer embarrassed me when she returned my painting and demanded a refund because it had cracked. It was a big blow to my self-esteem because it happened in public and I had already spent the money. Since then, I’ve never compromised on quality as far as working with materials.

“As an artist, I use different types of materials. I’ve found different ways of reusing some materials but I keep experimenting and discovering new things.

“I love making my brushstrokes visible for people to see that it was hand-painted.

“I am inspired by the early impressionists because of their free expression as well as by nature and my surroundings.

“Starting on my own has not been easy but I’m still learning. I’ve inspired many young people in my community, especially the artistically inclined pupils I’m mentoring.

“I want to continue painting and keep improving to make my dream come true to be recognized as a true artist.”