Pan African Art Ambassador Prince Kojo-Hilton Advocates for Visual Arts Colleges at National Creative Arts Dialogue

On Wednesday, 8th May 2025, the Honourable Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, convened an emergency meeting with Executives of all recognised Associations, Unions, and Guilds within Ghana’s Creative Arts industry. The dialogue offered a rare and strategic platform for stakeholders to share the most pressing challenges across sectors and propose viable solutions.

Representing the Visual Arts domain, Prince Kojo-Hilton—Pan African Art Ambassador and former Chairman of the Ghana Association of Visual Artists (Greater Accra)—used the platform to advocate for the establishment of dedicated regional visual arts colleges. He passionately highlighted the lack of structured institutions for SHS graduates who wish to pursue visual arts professionally but may not follow the conventional university pathway.

He referenced the now-defunct Ghanatta College of Art and Design, once a cradle of many of Ghana’s most accomplished artists, as a prime example of what’s missing in the current educational landscape. “We must revive and expand such institutions across the country,” he urged. “Our young talents need a pathway to grow their skills into sustainable careers.”

Quoting musician and industry advocate Mr. Rex Omar, Prince Kojo-Hilton stressed: “We need to elevate and amplify our visual artists.”

His Impact and Contributions

Prince Kojo-Hilton is a powerhouse in the creative industry, known for his scenic designs, public art, and groundbreaking work across film, theatre, and festivals. He is also the founder of the Visual Arts Students Empowerment Project (VASEP), which has empowered more than 1,000 senior high school students over the past eight years through training, mentorship, exhibitions, and industry exposure.

His efforts have created visible results—many VASEP beneficiaries have gone on to win awards, gain international opportunities, and launch careers in visual arts and design.

Proposal Underway

Prince Kojo-Hilton has prepared a well-structured project proposal detailing the roadmap for establishing regional visual arts colleges and building capacity within the sector. The proposal, grounded in the success of VASEP and years of industry insight, will be officially presented to the Honourable Minister next week for consideration and possible government support.

“We are foundational to every visual layer of creative production, yet consistently under-prioritised. Now is the time to change that narrative,” he concluded.

About Prince Kojo-Hilton

Prince Kojo-Hilton is a celebrated production designer, muralist, special effects artist, and visual arts advocate. He is the founder of Hilwood Studio and the driving force behind the Visual Arts Students Empowerment Project. As Ghana’s Pan African Art Ambassador, he continues to lead capacity-building efforts and promote artistic excellence across the continent.