“Without effort no harvest will be abundant.” It’s a fundamental message, and one of many African proverbs at the heart of Derrick Ofosu Boateng’s (b. 1998) practice. Traditionally, these sayings were shared orally and seldom written down; this led to a lack of wider documentation. The Ghanaian photographer’s energetic pictures close the gap. Shot on iPhone, they interpret each maxim by bursting with colour and joy. Boateng calls this approach Hueism: “self-expression through colour therapy and visual poetry.” Figures hold balloons or flowers, making shapes in tandem against blue, red and yellow blocks. Each teaches a lesson, from humility and modesty to patience. “Launching an art movement is a powerful way to share your message, and, in my case, to address the misinterpretation of Africa. It’s not just a declaration; it’s a call to participate.” Hueism is published by Homecoming Gallery. @derrick_o_boateng.
Image credits:
1. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Different Flowers, (2020).
2. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, You Are One in a Melon, (2020).
3. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Explore, (2019).
4. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Ntentan, (2021).
5. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Le Sourire, (2018-2019).
6. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, The Garden of Love, (2022). For Document Journal x Louis Vuitton.
7. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Stay Still Union, (2022).
8. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Amity with Nature, (2020).
9. Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Bon Rire, (2021).
