ABOUT HUEISM
During my childhood, a simple point-and-shoot analog camera made its appearance in my family home. It circulated among family members, and, when it was my turn, it always had a magnetic effect on me. I just couldn’t stay away from it. I’d shoot a full roll and then have it developed, eagerly anticipating the outcome of my shoots. This was my gateway to the world of photography, but my budding passion was abruptly halted when the camera broke. I was devastated for weeks. When my father brought home an iPhone 7 one day, everything shifted. This was a revolutionary device for us at the time, and I was perplexed by its features and the instant visual feedback. I’d seize every opportunity to use it, secretly embarking on more solo photo expeditions. My father’s initial disapproval turned into appreciation as he observed my blossoming skill and creativity. Ultimately, he gifted me the phone, marking the next chapter in my artistic journey. It became an extension of me, igniting my passion like never before.
Given that my father is an elder in our community, dedicating much of his time to guiding the young and preserving our traditions, Akan proverbs inevitably seeped into my craft. They are not mere words; they bear the weight of centuries of shared experiences, the triumphs and tribulations of countless ancestors. You can find them in the vast African savanna, where the golden sun kisses the earth each morning and rhythmic drum beats echo through time. These powerful teachings remind us of our origins and inspire us to stand tall against the winds of change. Every image I create is rooted in these teachings, and they’re directly connected to the symbolic use of color in my work.
This desire to capture Africa’s rich cultural heritage, proverbial wisdom and beauty in all its saturation led me to coin the term ‘Hueism’. Derived from the word ‘hue’, synonymous with ‘strength of color’, Hueism revolves around self-expression through color therapy and visual poetry. By introducing Hueism, I hope to evoke a movement, foster healing and challenge the often limited perceptions of my continent. It is the purpose of this book, and it offers a glimpse into the world as I see it. Hence, I say ‘akwaaba’—the Ghanaian word for welcome—and invite you to see Africa with all its vibrant shades and tones in a new and revitalized light.
