As a rising star in the field of contemporary art, Ghanaian-born Rufai Zakari (who was born in both Accra and Bawku) is quickly making a name for himself. His journey from a childhood spent crafting toys from discarded materials to becoming a beacon of sustainable art is a story of creativity, environmental consciousness, and community empowerment.
Zakari learned the fundamentals of art from Mozzay, a seasoned artist in Accra’s thriving Nima neighbourhood. In 2011, he graduated from the Ghanatta College of Art and Design, setting the stage for his distinctive artistic trajectory. Focusing on modern Ghanaian culture, Zakari investigates the interconnected ramifications of industrialization, consumerism, environmental destruction, labor, and trade.
An instrumental force in promoting sustainable art, Zakari founded the Rujab Eco-Art Foundation in his hometown of Bawku. The foundation’s ethos revolves around the transformative power of recycling waste materials found on the streets of Ghana. In a city where tribal conflicts have marred its past, leaving behind ruins and loss, this mission has profound meaning. Zakari’s vision now stands as a beacon of hope, rebuilding not only physical spaces but also inspiring resilience and optimism within his community.
Zakari’s artistic odyssey finds its expression in a series of impactful solo exhibitions, with upcoming shows at renowned venues like Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery in London and Contemporary Matters in Ohio, USA. His recent exhibitions, such as “There is Still Tomorrow” at the San Luis Potosí Centre for the Arts in Mexico City and “A New Dawn” at the Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery in London, have been celebrated for their thought-provoking exploration of pressing societal issues.
Participation in prestigious group exhibitions further underscores Zakari’s artistic prominence. Upcoming appearances at events like the 1-54 NYC exhibition in New York City and “Accra! The Rise of a Global Art Community” at the Columbus Museum of Art in the US testify to his rising influence. Noteworthy past participations include “Untitled Miami Beach” with Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery in Miami and “Global Positioning” with Public Art Fund in New York, Boston, and Chicago.
Zakari’s work holds a rightful place in private and public collections worldwide, including the Pizzuti Collection at the Columbus Museum of Art, the Arthur Lewis Collection, and the Bunker Artspace Museum, among others. His name is inextricably linked to a wave of emerging Ghanaian artists making waves on the international stage. This rising star shines alongside luminaries like Paa Joe, Nana Anoff, Nii Obodai, El Anatsui, and Glover, Ablade.
Looking back at his artistic journey, it’s clear that Zakari’s formative years in Bawku shaped his unique approach to art. Roaming the streets with friends, collecting discarded plastic bags and packaging materials, he honed his creative skills from an early age. This childhood passion has matured into an all-encompassing mission to promote sustainability and environmental consciousness through art.
Zakari’s artistic process involves collecting, cleaning, cutting, and transforming recycled materials into intricate collages. His vibrant creations not only captivate the eye but also convey his message with profound depth. His subjects, often powerful women depicted in regal attire, stand as symbols of strength and resilience, echoing his dedication to uplifting marginalised voices in his community.
Beyond his artistic endeavours, Zakari is an active environmental advocate. He serves as the creative director of two NGOs spearheading beach cleanups and educational workshops on waste management and climate change. Through these efforts, he extends his influence beyond galleries, actively engaging with communities and catalysing positive change.
Rufai Zakari’s transformation from a young enthusiast to a significant artist and environmental champion is motivational in a world where ecological issues are a problem. His ability to weave discarded materials into stunning works of art mirrors his broader mission: to reshape perspectives on waste, consumerism, and environmental responsibility. As he continues to amplify his message through exhibitions, workshops, and community engagement, Zakari’s legacy as a pioneer of sustainable art is firmly secured, leaving an indelible mark on Ghana’s cultural and environmental landscape.
