In 1962, Picelj initiated a series of his self-published “Edition a” art booklets, having released a total of seven publications up until 1964. Each issue of “Edition a” featured the work of one artist —mostly of a colleague whose work he admired.
In 1962, Picelj initiated a series of his self-published “Edition a” art booklets, having released a total of seven publications up until 1964. Each issue of “Edition a” featured the work of one artist —mostly of a colleague whose work he admired.
2024
embroidery on velvet, 225 x 500 cm
Benissan’s work is deeply rooted in her Ghanaian heritage. It is an attempt to revive traditional symbols within the context of contemporary art, emphasizing their role in shaping cultural identity. Her practice, spanning textiles, sculpture, photography, and video, seeks to highlight and celebrate the richness of Asante culture.
In her works, Benissan seeks to redefine the Ghanaian royal umbrella, transforming it from a simple object of protection into a powerful symbol of identity. She embroiders portraits of past rulers onto umbrella fabrics, combining archival narrative, local craftsmanship, and contemporary textile techniques. She works continuously with traditional artisans who make royal umbrellas for the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the capital of the Asante Kingdom.
The Words of a Man’s Mouth are Deep Waters was presented at Sharjah Biennial 16 in the United Arab Emirates.
Rita Mawuena Benissan (b. 1995) is a Ghanaian-American interdisciplinary artist. In 2020, she founded Si Hene, a foundation dedicated to preserving Ghanaian chieftaincy traditions and culture, significantly shaping Ghana’s artistic and historical narratives. Benissan’s works have gained international recognition, with exhibitions at renowned institutions in the United States, South Africa, Germany, and Ghana.
