GERGHANSAL 2027 Arts Exhibition Unveiled in Freetown

The GERGHANSAL 2027 International Arts Exhibition was unveiled in Freetown on 20 October, launching a Sierra Leone-Ghana-Germany initiative designed to expand opportunities for artists and deepen cultural cooperation among the three countries.

The launch press conference took place at the Sierra Leone National Museum. The exhibition is scheduled to run from 9 April to 10 May 2027 in Düsseldorf, Germany, with the official opening ceremony set for 9 April.

Platform for international collaboration

The initiative is intended to promote cultural exchange, artistic collaboration and professional networking. It is also expected to create international opportunities for both emerging and established artists.

Abdul Fadul Kamara, the project coordinator for Europe, said the exhibition would bring together artists and cultural practitioners from Sierra Leone, Ghana and Germany. He said participants would have the opportunity to exchange experiences, present contemporary artworks and develop lasting professional relationships.

Oliver Barnette, curator of the Sierra Leone National Museum, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to preserving the country’s cultural identity and historical heritage. Addressing Sierra Leonean artists at the launch, he said: “Artists in Sierra Leone, rise up! Do not allow the Ghanaians to overwhelm us,”

Sir Prince Nelson Num, speaking on behalf of the German Embassy, described cultural diplomacy as important to international relations and mutual understanding. “This initiative will foster collaboration, enrich Europeans as well as Sierra Leoneans, and help build lasting networks,” he said.

Visa access raised at launch

Discussions at the end of the press conference focused on participation arrangements, visa challenges and the anticipated benefits of the exhibition.

Kamara recalled that Sierra Leonean artists had faced visa difficulties during a similar programme in Germany in 2018. He announced plans for further engagement with relevant officials and appealed to German diplomatic authorities to facilitate legitimate visa applications for selected participants.

The status of those visa concerns was not resolved at the time of the launch. The exhibition’s organizers identified access to the necessary travel documentation as an issue requiring continued attention ahead of the Düsseldorf event.

Support for the creative sector

Ishamael Abu Kamara, deputy director of culture at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, said the creative industry has the potential to generate employment, promote tourism and contribute to economic development.

He also assured the organizers of the ministry’s willingness to support initiatives that preserve cultural heritage and empower local artists.

Melicia Barrie, a selected Sierra Leonean participant operating under the creative brand MelArt Design, said she was determined to represent the country internationally. “This is a calling for me! I have to grab it,” she said.

Organizers expect GERGHANSAL 2027 to increase international exposure for Sierra Leonean artists and strengthen cultural partnerships. The planned exhibition will also provide a setting for artists and cultural practitioners from the three participating countries to share their work and build professional connections.