Renowned Ghanaian artist Joseph Awuah-Darko is currently embroiled in a controversy as several artists accuse him of exploiting their talents for personal gain.
These artists claim that Awuah-Darko has withheld significant sums from the sale of their artworks through his foundation, The Noldor Residency.
In an in-depth investigation by Afrikmag titled “Gallery of Greed,” troubling revelations have come to light regarding Awuah-Darko’s alleged misconduct.
One artist, Foster Sakyiamah, has taken legal action against Awuah-Darko for failing to pay him over $200,000 from the sale of his artwork.
Foster described his relationship with Awuah-Darko as a “patron to predator” dynamic, claiming that funds owed to him were never transferred despite receiving financial reports indicating otherwise.
Another artist, Ishmeal Armah, has also accused Awuah-Darko of owing him more than $60,000 and missing his solo exhibition in Amsterdam.
Ishmeal expressed frustration over the financial strain caused by the unpaid funds and the continued excuses given by Awuah-Darko.
Elizabeth Sakyiamah, Foster’s younger sister, shared her experience of signing with Awuah-Darko’s Judith Ellen Foundation at a young age and having thousands of dollars locked up with no explanation.
Despite attempts to reach out to Awuah-Darko for answers, Elizabeth was met with more excuses and unresolved issues.
Additionally, an anonymous artist known as “Brush Daddy” revealed that artworks meant for exhibition were being sold without his consent, leading to his decision to terminate his contract with The Noldor Residency.
The legal battle between the artists and Awuah-Darko is ongoing, with Foster’s case currently progressing in court. Foster’s lawyer, Joachim Baazeng, emphasized the simple goal of the legal proceedings: to ensure that the artists receive the funds owed to them.
