The GERGHANSAL 2027 International Arts Exhibition has been officially unveiled in Freetown, offering Sierra Leonean artists an opportunity to showcase their creativity internationally while strengthening cultural cooperation among Sierra Leone, Ghana and Germany.
The initiative was launched during a press conference held on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, at the Sierra Leone National Museum, ahead of the exhibition scheduled for 9 April to 10 May 2027 in Düsseldorf, Germany.
The exhibition seeks to promote cultural exchange, artistic collaboration and professional networking while creating international opportunities for emerging and established artists.
Delivering her welcome address, the Curator of the Sierra Leone National Museum, Oliver Barnette, described the initiative as an important platform for promoting Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage and artistic potential.
She encouraged local artists to participate actively and demonstrate their creativity internationally.
“Artists in Sierra Leone, rise up! Do not allow the Ghanaians to overwhelm us,” she declared.
Oliver Barnette commended the Project Coordinator for Europe, Abdul Fadul Kamara, for introducing the initiative, noting that the National Museum remains committed to preserving Sierra Leone’s cultural identity and historical heritage.
Addressing journalists, Abdul Fadul Kamara explained that GERGHANSAL 2027 would bring together artists and cultural practitioners from the three countries to exchange experiences, showcase contemporary artworks and establish lasting professional relationships.
He disclosed that the official opening ceremony would take place on 9 April 2027 in Düsseldorf.
However, he expressed concern over visa challenges previously encountered by Sierra Leonean artists seeking to participate in international exhibitions, recalling difficulties experienced during a similar programme in Germany in 2018.
He appealed to German diplomatic authorities to facilitate legitimate visa applications for selected participants, while announcing plans for further engagement with relevant officials.
Speaking on behalf of the German Embassy, Culture Coordinator Sir Prince Nelson Num emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international relations and promoting mutual understanding.
He described GERGHANSAL 2027 as an initiative capable of building sustainable artistic partnerships and expanding opportunities for creative professionals.
“This initiative will foster collaboration, enrich Europeans as well as Sierra Leoneans, and help build lasting networks,” he stated.
The Deputy Director of Culture at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Ishamael Abu Kamara, welcomed the exhibition, highlighting the creative industry’s potential to generate employment, promote tourism and contribute to economic development.
He assured organizers of the Ministry’s willingness to support initiatives that preserve cultural heritage and empower local artists.
One selected Sierra Leonean participant, Melicia Barrie, operating under the creative brand MelArt Design, expressed excitement about representing the country internationally.
“This is a calling for me! I have to grab it,” she declared, pledging to showcase Sierra Leone’s artistic talent.
The press conference concluded with discussions on participation arrangements, visa challenges and anticipated benefits.
GERGHANSAL 2027 is expected to expand international exposure for Sierra Leonean artists while strengthening cultural partnerships and positioning the country’s creative industry within the global arts community.
