Kumasi: Government has been urged to invest in the Visual Arts industry to unlock its full potential and generate greater socio-economic benefits for national development. Dr George Buma Ampratwum, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Painting and Sculpture, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), said Visual Arts remained a viable sector with long-term economic prospects.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Ampratwum noted that investment in the industry could position Ghana on the global stage and attract foreign investors for trade partnerships. Beyond its economic value, he said Visual Arts also contributed to psychological well-being, particularly for individuals with special needs.
Dr Ampratwum explained that the field extended beyond painting, sculpture, drawing, graphic design, and photography to include areas such as metal works, fashion, textiles, weaving, and wood carving, which were often overlooked. He cited private investors like Mr Ibrahim Mahama as examples of individuals leveraging opportunities in the sector, noting that he has established one of the well-known art exhibition spaces in Tamale.
Dr Ampratwum also commended Dr Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister, for initiating the Street Arts Festival during the AshantiFest 2026 celebrations. The festival engaged Senior High School Visual Arts students to showcase their talents at the Asokwa Interchange in Kumasi, a move he described as impactful in promoting the relevance of the arts.
He urged the government to sustain such initiatives by supporting arts institutions with essential materials and equipment to nurture talent. 'The government can buy art to invest in the sector. Most materials used in creating artworks are expensive, so providing them at subsidised rates will support artists,' he said.
He proposed the construction of at least one exhibition hall in each of the 16 regions to boost the industry and promote tourism nationwide. Additionally, he recommended that the Centre for National Culture organised regular professional training programmes to enhance the skills of artists.
Dr Ampratwum stressed that providing quality materials, infrastructure, and training would significantly harness the socio-economic benefits of the Visual Arts industry.