In Ghana, there is a prevalent culture that often struggles to appreciate one group without criticizing another.
This phenomenon makes it challenging to maintain objectivity, especially in the arts, where much of the work is inherently subjective.
Art is a delicate form of expression, and only a few individuals can connect with it beyond mere admiration.
These individuals are able to both enjoy and critique art from a place of sincerity and genuine appreciation.
The concept of duality plays a significant role in Ghanaian culture, with each person’s birth date carrying specific names and characteristics.
For some, like myself, being born on one day but given a name from another symbolizes a lifelong struggle with internal duality.
As both a creative and a critic within Ghana, I have observed a trend where criticism is often viewed as hate, while blind support is mistaken for loyalty.
The industry seems to value yes-men who offer unwavering support over constructive criticism, leading to roadblocks in artistic growth.
Ghanaian creatives have showcased their world-class abilities but often struggle to reach their full potential due to prevailing mediocrity, petty politics, and a culture resistant to change.
The industry is plagued by a lack of willingness to give, receive, and adhere to constructive criticism.
This resistance to criticism stems from biases and a misguided sense of loyalty that permeates the industry.
Instead of focusing on addressing existing issues, the industry is divided, quick to resort to negative language, and resistant to new ideas.
To overcome these challenges, there needs to be a paradigm shift within Ghana’s creative industry.
Creatives, critics, and stakeholders must embrace new perspectives, welcome constructive criticism as a tool for improvement, and foster an environment of growth and open-mindedness.
