Accra has quietly become one of Africa’s most exciting contemporary art capitals. Over the past decade, a wave of ambitious galleries, artist-run spaces and foundations has put Ghanaian artists — from El Anatsui to Amoako Boafo — on the walls of the world’s biggest museums and auction houses. For visitors, that means a vibrant, welcoming gallery scene where you can see (and buy) cutting-edge African art. Here’s a guide to the best art galleries in Accra and how to explore the scene.
Accra’s art galleries at a glance
| Gallery | Area | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Gallery 1957 | Kempinski / Galleria | Leading contemporary African art |
| Artists Alliance Gallery | Labadi (seafront) | Huge three-floor collection |
| Nubuke Foundation | East Legon | Art space, archive & exhibitions |
| ANO Institute | Accra | Research, culture & mobile museum |
| Berj Art Gallery / Loom | Central Accra | Established & emerging artists |
The leading galleries
Gallery 1957 is the heavyweight — representing many of Ghana’s most celebrated contemporary artists, with polished spaces (including at the Kempinski hotel) and a global reputation. The sprawling Artists Alliance Gallery on the Labadi seafront is the opposite experience: three floors crammed with paintings, sculpture, masks, beads and furniture — equal parts gallery and treasure hunt, and great for browsing and buying across all budgets.
Foundations & artist spaces
For a deeper, more curatorial experience, the Nubuke Foundation in East Legon is a beautiful contemporary art space with rotating exhibitions, an archive and design store, while the ANO Institute of Arts & Knowledge drives research, culture and its travelling “Mobile Museum.” Smaller spaces like Berj Art Gallery and Loom showcase established and emerging talent. Together they make a rich, varied scene well worth a dedicated day.
Ghana’s art moment
This isn’t a sleepy local scene — Ghanaian artists are global. El Anatsui (of the shimmering bottle-cap tapestries) is one of the world’s most acclaimed living artists; Amoako Boafo‘s portraits command huge sums; and names like Ibrahim Mahama (who’s built major art spaces in Tamale and Kumasi), Serge Attukwei Clottey and El Anatsui anchor a thriving ecosystem. Visiting Accra’s galleries puts you right at the heart of it.
Tips for the gallery scene
- Check opening hours & shows on galleries’ social media — some are appointment-friendly.
- Combine nearby spaces — East Legon (Nubuke) and the Labadi seafront (Artists Alliance) each pair well with food.
- Ask about prices and shipping — galleries can arrange international delivery for serious buys.
- Time it with an event — openings and December’s art calendar are buzzing.
- Pair with crafts — see our Arts Centre and shopping guides.
The bottom line
Accra’s galleries are where you feel Ghana’s creative confidence — lead with Gallery 1957 for blue-chip contemporary work, lose an afternoon in the Artists Alliance treasure trove, and go curatorial at the Nubuke Foundation. Whether you’re buying or just looking, it’s a window onto one of the most dynamic art scenes on the continent. Plan around it with our things to do in Accra guide.
