Ghana’s most stylish guys – in pictures
Spo and Holali, Accra, Ghana, 2021
Spo and Holali, Accra, Ghana, 2021Kyle Weeks’s 2023 photobook Good News catalogues six years of photographs made during frequent visits to Ghana’s capital, Accra. He aims to capture the inherent goodness, enthusiasm and hope that permeates west Africa. Of this image he says: ‘These close friends arrived together for this portrait session. Spo, an aspiring model, and Holali, an upcoming stylist, showcased their impeccable taste and camaraderie through perfectly coordinated outfits.’ Meeting at the Volta: Kyle Weeks is at David Hill Gallery, London, until 25 November. All photographs: Kyle Weeks, courtesy of Galerie Gomis: David Hill Gallery
Emmanuel, Accra, Ghana, 2022
‘Emmanuel is a prominent figure in the Ghanaian creative scene who is celebrated as both an actor and model. After seeing a film that showcased his talent, I felt compelled to reach out and request to take his portrait. We spent a couple of hours exploring various locations, creating images and sharing stories. This experience beautifully illustrates one of the gifts of portrait photography – the inherent power of the medium is to unite and forge meaningful connections between individuals’
Prince, Accra, Ghana, 2016
‘At Tip Toe Lane, nestled near Circle in the vibrant heart of Accra, a bustling street market comes alive with vendors peddling an array of wares from garments to electronics. Amid the lively sounds of vendors vying for attention, and traffic inching forward, one figure stood out. This was Prince, adorned in sharply coordinated attire, selling gold chains. Despite my initial nerves, I approached him to request a portrait, to which he eagerly agreed. This chance encounter sparked a series of photographs of Prince, marking the beginning of an evolving relationship’
Flower Boy, Accra, Ghana, 2018
‘Sunday motor shows in Jamestown offer a burst of fast-paced entertainment for locals, who gather to witness adrenaline-fuelled stunts against the backdrop of golden evening light. I attended these shows on numerous occasions, and my focus gradually shifted from the spectacle of stunts to the captivating energy of the crowds. In the exhilarating atmosphere, this young man’s composed outfit struck me as a tranquil moment amid lively surroundings’
Shatta Beach, Accra, Ghana, 2018
‘Nestled within the historical charm of Jamestown, the city’s oldest quarter, Shatta Beach emerges as a sanctuary for the local youth, an oasis of liberal expression in the heart of a conservative, religious community. The vibrant atmosphere is infused with bass-heavy music, a fusion of both local and international sounds, resonating through the air from morning until late. The unmistakable scent of marijuana weaves through the breeze, adding to the unique ambience’
Untitled, Accra, Ghana, 2018
‘As I strolled past, the late afternoon sun piercing through the dusty windows of an idle bus caught my eye. Inside, a teenage boy leaned against the rows of vacant seats, seemingly lost in his thoughts. In this unplanned encounter, he agreed to be photographed. The brief portrait process was interrupted by the bus owner, which left our exchange of names hanging in the air. It was a fleeting moment of connection amid the unexpected’
Kevin, Accra, Ghana, 2020
‘As the guys went for a spontaneous swim while still wearing their blue denims, a serendipitous moment unfolded on the beach. Kevin, a new acquaintance, sat by the shore, unknowingly striking a captivating pose. The gracefulness of his hand and foot placement drew me in, offering a beautifully delicate moment within the casual beach atmosphere’
Joshua, Accra, Ghana, 2021
‘The steps of the National Theatre provide a gathering place for the skateboarding community in Accra. Joshua, a prominent figure in the local skate scene, caught my attention, and aligned with my passion for the sport. Despite the sweltering heat, we spent hours riding and eventually found respite on the warmly lit stairs of the theatre. It was there, after our shared sweat and determination, that we collaborated to create this portrait’
Shadraq, Accra, Ghana, 2020
‘My first encounter with Shadraq was in 2019 during a casting for an ID magazine editorial shoot with Ibrahim Kamara and Amy Drammeh. On the morning of the actual shoot, which was a few years later, Shadraq arrived in a captivating burnt orange suit that made a bold statement. As we wandered through the early morning streets of Osu, heads turned during the busy commute. The vibrant hue of his clothing commanded attention and set the tone for a memorable shoot’
Source: TheGuardian
