Jeremiah Quarshie’s ‘Memories of Yellow’ exhibition opens in Accra

Renowned Ghanaian artist Jeremiah Quarshie is set to unveil his second solo exhibition in Ghana, titled Memories of Yellow: A Game of Power and Chance, in Accra. 

The highly anticipated exhibition, curated by Samuel Baah Kotey, delves into the ongoing water crisis in the city while paying tribute to the resilience of women who bear the daily burden of securing this essential resource.

The exhibition officially opens on Thursday, 6 March 2025, at 5 pm at Gallery 1957-Gallery II, located within the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, Accra. The event will commence with an artist talk in the Pearl Meeting Room before attendees move on to view the exhibition itself. The showcase will run until 26 April 2025.

Quarshie, whose artistic journey began at an early age, is known for his ability to transform social issues into compelling visual narratives. “I’ve been drawing since I was two,” he recalls, reflecting on his early passion for art. Despite societal expectations, he pursued a fine arts education and honed his craft while working with museums and art institutions across Europe.

His first solo exhibition, Yellow is the Color of Water, introduced audiences to his unique perspective on water-related themes. Now, Memories of Yellow expands on this exploration, capturing the lived experiences of women from various backgrounds who navigate the challenges posed by water scarcity.

“These women are not just representations of Ghanaian or perhaps African womanhood; they embody strength and dignity in the face of adversity,” Quarshie explains. His work, often indistinguishable from photography, invites viewers to connect deeply with his subjects, fostering empathy and understanding.

The exhibition is designed to be an immersive experience, incorporating various elements to leave a lasting impression on attendees. Quarshie believes that art should be an integral part of society, inspiring critical thought and action. “I want to create memories that people will carry with them long after they leave,” he states.

Beyond his artistic endeavours, Quarshie is committed to using art as a tool for social change. He emphasises the role of artists in contributing to economic and cultural development. “Many artists dream of creating opportunities for others,” he notes. “Rather than simply enjoying the fruits of our labour, we invest in the system—organising cultural events and creating training and learning opportunities for others.”

Drawing comparisons with Europe, where museums and galleries serve as major sources of revenue, Quarshie underscores the potential of art as an economic driver. However, he acknowledges the challenges that local artists face in gaining recognition and support within Ghana. “Most of our artworks end up in the hands of foreign collectors,” he laments, highlighting the urgent need for a culture that values and supports local talent.

Through his work, Quarshie seeks to challenge dominant narratives surrounding African art and the portrayal of women. His goal is to showcase their power and dignity, shifting perceptions and encouraging dialogue on these critical themes.

As the exhibition launch approaches, Quarshie remains hopeful that his work will spark meaningful conversations about water scarcity and its societal impact. “I want people to walk away with a deeper understanding of the water crisis and its effects on our society,” he asserts. “Art is a powerful tool for storytelling, and I hope my work resonates with those who experience it.”

With Memories of Yellow: A Game of Power and Chance, Quarshie invites audiences to engage with one of Ghana’s pressing social issues while celebrating the resilience of those affected. The exhibition promises to be a transformative experience, reinforcing the power of art as a catalyst for change.