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SAM AGBENYEGAH
A brilliant artist, Sam sold his first painting when he was twelve years old. We hear his story.
BA: How did you start painting/How long have you been painting?
SA: As far as I can remember, I was in primary school when it all started. My hand writing was very good. Anytime the teacher had to write on board I was asked to do it. There was also this art competition in the papers by KLM which one of my teachers encouraged me to partake in. I did, and received a consolation prize. This made me continue painting. Luckily for me by age twelve, The Loom Art Gallery, sold my first painting. I was so happy and since then I just couldn’t stop painting. As a matter of fact, I have had no formal training in art and I have been painting full time for 26 years now.
BA: Your artwork is quite distinctive. Can you describe your style?
SA: My style is semi-abstract. Occasionally though, I do abstract paintings as well. I love to smash colours freely with brush and the palette knife. The impasto nature of this application of paint brings a lot of movements in my work and anytime I paint, I feel like something pouring from my heart.
BA: What inspires you to paint? Do you draw inspiration from any artists or art styles?
SA: I get inspiration from everyday life. Things around me, for example, beaches, markets, people on the streets, buildings are all inspirational. Listening to the radio, watching television and reading also helps. I'm also inspired by my own paintings. I see a new painting emerging from another painting I have produced. However, at the same time, I don't repeat my paintings.
BA: What advice do you have for young people who want to take up art as acareer?
SA: I think young people who want to take up art as a career must be ready to devote their time to it. They must read a lot because information is key. Also they must work hard and keep focus.
BA:You're obviously very successful. How easy is it to make a living as anartist in Africa today?
SA: It is not easy to be an artist in Africa today because there are ups and downs. But with perseverance and a good attitude you can always be smiling as an artist.