Kofi Antubam

Kofi Antubam, born in 1922, emerged as a trailblazing figure in the development of modern art in Ghana. His artistic journey commenced during his formative years, notably shaped by his education at Achimota School in the Gold Coast during the 1930s. This institution, recognized for its commitment to merging modern and African art, profoundly influenced Antubam's artistic perspective.

Early life
Antubam was born in 1922 to the family of Maame and Nana Mensah. His father died when Antubam was at a young age, thereafter his uncle took him to Kumasi to start his education. He later spent some time in Jos, Nigeria, and also at Adisadel College. It was while at Adisadel College that he was encouraged to develop his craft. The principal, Father John Knight suggested to the governor, Arnold Hodson to commission the young Antubam to make a clay bust. After favorable reception of the sculpted work, he obtained sponsorship to attend Achimota College. At Achimota College, he was a pupil of a Russian-born sculptor and art teacher, Herbert Vladimir Meyerowitz, a teacher who encouraged his students to absorb everyday community life as inspiration and not just copying European art traditions. Antubam's years at Achimota included completing an arts and craft course, teacher training course and a primary course. After graduation, Antubam supported himself through teaching, he also produced and sold figurative paintings. Between 1948 and 1950, he won a scholarship to study at Goldsmith College, London.

Antubam's early life in Cape Town and his experiences as a preacher and trader for his father laid the foundation for his later artistic endeavors. Despite his diverse roles, his passion for carving and drawing remained steadfast, leading him to pursue an apprenticeship at the Block and Leo Wald Sculpture, Pottery, and Plastics Foundry in Jeppe, Johannesburg. In the 1950s, Antubam developed various works of arts and craft including Nkrumah's presidential mace and chair, various state commissioned relief mural carvings. In 1963, he published Ghana's Heritage of Culture, a book that treats Ghana's contribution to the world of art and a medium Antubam used to make a case for a national art that represents Ghana's political and cultural history.

Artistic journey
Antubam's artistic career unfolded against the backdrop of Ghana's quest for independence and a cultural renaissance. Balancing modernism with a deep reverence for his African heritage, his artworks often featured traditional Ghanaian symbols and themes. Significantly, he assumed a pivotal role in the revitalization of modern and African art at Achimota School between 1927 and 1952, signifying a crucial era in the artistic evolution of Ghana. This period marked a transformative chapter in the development of modern art, with Antubam's contributions at the forefront of this movement. Further insights into Antubam's artistic legacy and the impact of his work can be explored in the entry "Antubam, Kofi (1922–1964)" in The Routledge Encyclopedia of Modernism.

Legacy and recognition
Antubam's influence extended beyond his artistic creations, leaving an indelible mark on the Ghanaian art scene. His legacy lives on through both his artworks and the impact he had on subsequent generations of artists. In 2020, the publication "Akora-Kofi-Antubam" celebrated his life and contributions to the art world.

A feature article on Yen.com.gh titled "Meet Kofi Antubam, the artist who pioneered modern art in Ghana" highlighted his role in bringing modern art to the forefront of Ghanaian artistic expression.

Artistic style
Kofi Antubam's artistic style is a unique blend of modernism and traditional African elements, reflecting a profound mix of his cultural heritage and contemporary influences. His works often feature intricate details, vibrant colors, and a careful balance between abstract and representational forms. Antubam's artistic expression seamlessly incorporates traditional Ghanaian symbols and themes, creating a visual language that resonates with both local and global audiences.

Major influences
Antubam's artistic journey was shaped by a myriad of influences, ranging from the cultural richness of his native country; Ghana, to the global currents of modernism. His exposure to modern and African art at Achimota School played a pivotal role in molding his style. Additionally, Antubam drew inspiration from the socio-political landscape of Ghana during its quest for independence, infusing his works with themes of identity, resilience, and the human experience.

Notable exhibitions and collections
Throughout his career, Kofi Antubam's artworks graced numerous prestigious exhibitions and found homes in renowned collections. In 1967, he represented South Africa at the São Paulo Biennale, marking a significant milestone in his international recognition. His participation in exhibitions such as "African Art from South Africa" (1975) in London and "The Short Century: Independence and Liberation Movements in Africa" (2001) in Munich underscored the global impact of his artistic contributions.

Notable collections featuring Antubam's works include the Iziko South African National Gallery in Cape Town, the Johannesburg Art Gallery, and the De Beers Centenary Art Gallery at the University of Fort Hare, Alice. His retrospective exhibition, "Dumile Feni Retrospective Exhibition" (2005), toured major galleries, including the Johannesburg Art Gallery, Oliewenhuis Art Museum in Bloemfontein, and the Iziko SA National Gallery in Cape Town. He is notedly recognized as the designer of the presidential mace and presidential seat used by Kwame Nkrumah.