Places in Ghana: Joe's Perspective Art Boutique

"It is not an art gallery in the typical sense – more of a concept store" is what the owner and creative director behind Joe’s Perspective  Art Boutique, Kukua Ampah calls it.

The curious name – Joe’s Perspective actually pays homage to Kukua's dad; Joe who had a passion for art and as she puts it, "'is the real inspiration behind the concept store".

The boutique has been open for over a year now and I have to admit to being a regular visitor who goes just to admire the beautiful pieces.  It is expertly and elegantly laid out with chandelier lights and a boldly painted black and white wall on one end and hanging shelves on the other, laden with beautiful sculptures and art pieces – nothing like you’ve ever seen anywhere.

Kukua works directly with local artists and artisans, and the work one sees in the store is a collaboration with the artists and artisans to create pieces that are in fact one of a kind. There is a wide variety of West African art, sculptures, colourful baskets and leather cases, all reworked and recreated to suit the discerning buyer looking for West African and Ghanaian art, that is truly African and yet cosmopolitan.

I go simply to admire the pieces and do a bit of aspirational viewing; it is just that kind of place. I have in fact seen the re-upholstered armchair, done in an African-inspired geometric print  as an ideal place for one to simply sit, with a good coffee and take it all in. The place is small and intimate but the use of light and its layout makes it 

feel more spacious. If it’s a bit of advise on art and deco you’re looking for – this is the place to go. Kukua does some work with homeowners regarding deco, specifically on how her pieces can be made to fit better in a home - "it lends a more personal touch to simply buying a piece and then not finding the ideal or suitable place for it in your home". Joe's Perspective is the perfect place to get that piece of decorative art for office or home…or if like me you just want to admire the work and dream – you’re also in the right place.

Interesting trivia: The Trophy behind the Africa Fashion Week 2010, held in South Africa earlier this year was by none other...

Joe’s Perspective Art Boutique

Metro TV Rd, North Labone

Tel: 0302 777 942

The gift store at Labadi Beach Hotel is a good place to find the smaller gift items from this exquisite boutique.