A scene at the solo exhibition
Absa Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to developing Africa’s creative economy with the unveiling of a striking solo exhibition by Ghana’s 2023 Absa L’Atelier Ambassador, Edward Lawerh Dugbartey.
The exhibition, titled “The Things the Street Made Beautiful,” opened at The Mix Design Hub in Accra and continues the bank’s long-standing tradition of supporting emerging artistic talent across the continent.
The showcase forms part of the Absa L’Atelier Pan-African Visual Arts Money Museum (VAMM) Exhibition Series, an initiative that offers young artists a platform to tell African stories through bold, innovative, and culturally resonant visual expressions.
Representing Ghana on the continental stage, Edward Lawerh’s work delves into themes of resilience, human experience, and the hidden beauty of everyday street life. His unconventional use of fabric, aged photographs, image transfers, and even insecticide solutions as artistic material creates layered pieces that capture memory, identity, and the poetry of survival.
Speaking at the opening, Dr. Paul Bayliss, Senior Specialist Art Curator at Absa, described the artist’s work as “a powerful interpretation of the African lived experience — honest, emotional and visually compelling.” He emphasised Absa’s continued investment in nurturing talent, noting that the L’Atelier programme remains one of the most influential art development initiatives in Africa.
Ghana has consistently excelled within the Absa L’Atelier ecosystem, producing five winners since 2019, demonstrating the country’s growing impact on contemporary African art. As a 2023 Ambassador, Edward Lawerh received year-long mentorship, professional development, and continental exposure, culminating in this highly anticipated solo exhibition.
Reflecting on his journey, Edward expressed gratitude for the platform Absa provided.
“This exhibition captures the stories we often overlook — the textures, emotions, and lives found on our streets. I am honoured to share these narratives and to represent Ghana through Absa L’Atelier.”
The exhibition adds to Absa’s wider efforts to empower young African creatives, offering them visibility, resources, and pathways to international artistic engagement. Through initiatives like L’Atelier, the bank continues to champion the role of art in shaping social dialogue and cultural identity.