Meet Emmanuel Asante, a young migrant artist from Ghana who recently showcased his work in Bondi Beach. His story is a testament to the transformative power of art in the community.
How art is appreciated and valued is one of the things that he loves about Australia, Asante admits, which is something that doesn’t get the same level of appreciation and recognition back home.
Asante arrived in Australia in April 2015 and subsequently graduated from Eagle Vale High School in 2018. Although he had artistic inclinations from a young age, the road to becoming a professional artist seemed distant. It was not until he joined the Refugee Art Project, a nonprofit organisation established to foster creativity and provide a platform for self-expression for asylum seekers and refugees, that this journey to an artistic path began.
However, he said becoming an artist was a huge decision for him, as he was going against the wishes of people who matter to him. And despite being largely self-taught, Asante’s journey into the world of painting and drawing was spurred by personal experiences and a battle with depression.
After completing high school, Asante took his portfolio of drawings to the National Art School hoping to secure a spot in their program. He was extended an offer with the possibility of some financial assistance, but because he wasn’t a citizen yet, he had to pay $12,000 upfront fee in two to three months. A financial challenge that caused him to defer the offer and eventually resulted in him losing financial support from his parents.
He then worked in a warehouse for about eight months whilst also doing some work as a professional artist and public speaker. When his agency’s contract wasn’t renewed and the COVID-19 hit, wiping out his public speaking engagements and art opportunities, he admits that it caused him severe anxiety and depression.
Through the help of counsellors from Headspace and assistance that he got from Settlement Services International, who provided him with art materials and supplies, Asante slowly got back on his feet.
One significant aspect of his artistic journey is his role in teaching art to children at the Opera House, where he imparted his skills to the younger generation. He also contributed his talent to various community initiatives, including ‘The Island’ at Addison Rd Community Centre, collaborations with Headspace at HJ Daley Library Campbelltown, and the Resilience Portrait Project in partnership with Campbelltown City Council.
As a Ghanaian migrant in Australia, his personal experiences serve a deep well of inspiration for his art, channelling his emotions and cultural heritage into his creations.
Published 6-September-2023
