In this part of our world, children must choose a single life path and stick to it. Nonetheless, a few along the way have uttered and defied such a way of life. Ashmond Kwesy as he is widely recognized, is one of such defiance a growing society needs. He is a reminder that the boundless spirit of true creativity is a force that thrives across disciplines, unbound by categories or conventions.
Starting off as a self-taught photographer, he embarked on a journey fueled by passion and a vision beyond his immediate reality. He has been guided by little more than ambition and heart. Ashmond Kwesy has built a body of work that speaks to the soul.
Known widely as Mr. Eazi’s official photographer, Ashmond’s journey has taken him across the U.S., Europe, and Africa, working alongside household names and prestigious brands like Kick Game, Trapstar, and Emirates Cup. His experiences have shaped his perspective, imbuing his work with a unique mix of Ghanaian heritage and global influence.
Yet, photography is only half of the story. Ashmond’s passion for fashion design found life in OLK Studios, a brand that fuses his love for style with a deep connection to his personal narrative. Now, with his debut solo exhibition “The Son of Victoria” set to open in Accra, he’s bringing his story full circle. The exhibit is a tribute to his late mother, Victoria, whose influence has permeated both his life and art, guiding him through the challenges of growing up and pushing him toward a path of self-expression. Through this exhibition and OLK’s latest collection, Ashmond invites audiences into his world, sharing a journey that is as much about personal growth as it is about artistic evolution.
In this interview, Ashmond Kwesy opens up about the milestones and memories that define him, the creative partnerships that have shaped his vision, and the future he envisions not just for himself but for Ghanaian art on the global stage.
RV: Congratulations to you Ashmond for your upcoming exhibit and what an incredible journey you have had. How would you introduce or describe yourself to people who are not familiar with your work?
Ashmond: Thank you so much! I’d describe myself as a quiet, passionate, and creative person with a big heart—and some humor too! I’m a fashion designer and photographer from Ghana, and I owe much of my journey to the wonderful people in my life who have supported me along the way.
RV: Commonly known to be Mr. Eazi’s official photographer, this must come with unforgettable experiences. What’s it like capturing his journey, and how has it shaped your perspective as a photographer?
Ashmond: Working with Mr. Eazi has been a huge milestone. It’s eye-opening and humbling to travel across the globe from the U.S to Europe, London, and across East and West Africa. Being part of his team has allowed me to grow not just as a photographer but as a person. Mr. Eazi is generous, caring, and truly values his team. Through this journey, I’ve learned to adapt, create in real-time, and build on my wildest creative dreams. As an orphan who grew up in Ghana, this experience has allowed me to witness the world and learn from creatives globally. It’s shaped my perspective in profound ways.
RV: You’re not just a photographer; you’re a designer and entrepreneur with your fashion brand, Olk Studios. How did you transition into the fashion world, and what excites you most about Olk Studios?
Ashmond: Fashion has always been my first love. Growing up, I traveled around Ghana, eventually moving to Accra after junior high school. My spark for design came when I was in a visual arts class, hearing about different professions, including clothing design. That was the day I found my purpose. Photography came naturally later, as I wanted to capture fashion in the way I envisioned it but couldn’t find anywhere else. What excites me most about Olk Studios is being able to turn stories and emotions into something beautiful, and to share my love for design as a reflection of my journey.
RV: Many artists say that their work reflects their inner world. How does your personal journey and heritage influence your artistic direction and style?
Ashmond: My first solo exhibition, The Son of Victoria, is the best testament to that. It’s a deeply personal reflection of my inner world, my heritage, and my story. I invite everyone to join me on December 27th, 2024, at The Mixgh to experience it fully.
RV: What challenges did you face when starting in the creative industry, and how did you overcome them to establish yourself as a sought-after photographer?
Ashmond: Coming to Accra alone as an orphan from Brong Ahafo, with no formal connections or support, was difficult. I had to remain grounded and focused on my vision. I relied on my passion, consistency, and resilience, with faith and the support of my ancestors, family, friends, and God. This focus kept me going, no matter the obstacles.
RV: As both a photographer and a designer, you’re creating a seamless blend of visual storytelling. How do you see the relationship between fashion and photography in your work?
Ashmond: For me, fashion and photography are like home. They’re my creative therapy and allow me to channel my emotions into something impactful. This partnership between fashion and photography lets me share my love, pain, and joy with the world in a unique way.
RV: With Olk Studios, you’re exploring yet another artistic medium. How do you envision the brand evolving, and what story does each collection tell about you as a creator?
Ashmond: Each collection is an expression of life as I know it, giving people a glimpse into my world. The “TSOV” Collection, in particular, is my story; not many people know who I am, and I believe now is the time to show them.
RV: The new collection launch from Olk Studios is coinciding with your exhibit. What inspired you to integrate both projects, and how do you see Olk Studios complementing your photography?
Ashmond: Fashion and photography are my lifelong partners, so bringing them together felt natural. Photography became part of my life because of fashion, and together, they’ve enabled me to reach new heights. Integrating them in these projects honors that connection.
RV: “The Son of Victoria” seems intensely personal, dedicated to your mother’s memory. How did her influence shape both your life and art, and what was it like pouring these emotions into an exhibit?
Ashmond: My mother, Victoria, shaped everything. She had such a unique style, even in a community where fashion wasn’t a priority. I remember her little “V” hairstyle for “Victoria,” and her beautiful bouquets from the botanical gardens. My parents loved me fiercely, and this exhibit is a way to honour that love and bring it to life.
RV: This exhibit invites audiences to experience a personal side of you through photography and fashion. What kind of dialogue or connection do you hope to establish with those who visit it?
Ashmond: I hope my story inspires others to believe in themselves, stay confident, and remain consistent. We’re all designers of our own lives, and I hope visitors feel empowered by that message.
RV: Creating art that reflects personal loss can be both therapeutic and challenging. What was the most rewarding part of putting together The Son of Victoria, and what message does it share with viewers?
Ashmond: The love and support I’ve received has been incredibly rewarding. For so long, I’ve focused on others; now I get to tell my story, and it’s wonderful to feel that it’s well-deserved. The message of TSOV is to believe in yourself, stay confident, and take charge of your life’s design.
RV: Your work with brands like Stonebwoy’s Bhim Nation and Jeanius Bar Atelier highlights a diverse range of creative partnerships. How do you approach each collaboration to ensure it captures the essence of both your brand and theirs?
Ashmond: Fashion and photography have a natural synergy with these brands, which makes the partnerships smooth. My strength in both areas allows me to align with their brand essence, which has been key to my success in collaborations.
RV: African creatives are gaining more global attention. As an artist representing Ghana, how do you see your work contributing to the narrative of African art on the international stage?
Ashmond: It’s an honor to bring African artistry to a wider audience. African creatives are often overlooked, but we are incredibly talented. I hope to show that with hard work, consistency, and gratitude, our time will come on the world stage.
RV: What excites you most about the creative community in Ghana right now, and how do you see Ghanaian art evolving in the next few years?
Ashmond: The world isn’t ready! African creatives are powerful because we’ve created so much from so little, and that resilience makes us truly unstoppable. Ghanaian art is rising and will continue to make waves globally.
RV: With so much happening, the exhibit, Olk Studios’ latest collection, and ongoing collaborations, what’s next for Ashmond Oppong? Are there any new ventures or themes you’re eager to explore?
Ashmond: There’s a lot on the horizon, and I’m leaving it up to God. For now, I’m staying consistent, passionate, and open to where this journey takes me next.
By: Jude Tackie
