Art Talk Episode 04 || Part 2: On Asante Folklore, Art, and Autobiography

Episode 04: On Asante Folklore, Art, and Autobiography (Part 1) A Conversation between Dr. Kwasi Ohene-Ayeh and Dr. Agyeman Ossei (Dota)  About This Episode In this installment of the Art Talk series, we are joined by the multi-hyphenate artist and scholar Dr. Agyeman Ossei (widely known as Dota) for an illuminating look into his prolific yet "silent" art practice. We trace his journey from his early years at KNUST to his deep-seated interest in the synthesis of Akan proverbial lore and contemporary sculpture. Dr. Ossei discusses his unique approach to materiality and "directing" visual spaces, drawing on his extensive background in theater and drama to breathe life into static forms. This conversation explores how his work functions as a bridge between the oral traditions of the past and the avant-garde present, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of a creator who moves seamlessly between the stage and the studio. Profiles Dr. Agyeman Ossei (Guest) Dr. Agyeman Ossei, popularly known as Dota, is a distinguished Ghanaian painter, sculptor, and dramatist. Formerly the Head of the Theatre Arts Department at the University of Ghana, Legon, and a former Director of the National Theatre, his practice is defined by the translation of Akan philosophy, proverbs, and mythology into visual and performative languages. His work often utilizes heavy textures and proverbial motifs to challenge the boundaries between traditional African aesthetics and contemporary theater. Dr. Kwasi Ohene-Ayeh (Interviewer) Kwasi Ohene-Ayeh, Ph.D., is a curator, critic, and educator based at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, Ghana. His research interrogates the exhibition as a pedagogical site and posits the curator as a self-subverting authority. Credits & Info Series: blaxxRADIO | Art Talk Host: Dr. Kwasi Ohene-Ayeh (IUB) Guest: Dr. Agyeman Ossei Location: Recorded at the Museum of Science and Technology, Accra, Ghana Theme Song: Zegedevi by ZAGUNOR and Megborna Post-production: Megborna at The SHRINE Listen now and join the conversation.