Eugene Ankomah, also known as EA, a renowned performance artist recognized for his iconic briefcase style, has once again received a prestigious accolade. He was named the Best Visual Artist at the BEFFTA Awards, marking his fourth win at the event. Previously, he was honored with the Best Creative Artist of the Year award in 2022.
Ankomah, who studied at Willesden High School, Central St Martins College of Art & Design, and the University of Westminster, has exhibited his work globally in countries such as the US, Greece, Germany, and Nigeria. His art serves as a platform to raise awareness about social issues and spark conversations on topics affecting young people and society.
One of his notable projects, ‘Re-claim’, launched in 2019, is an anti-knife crime initiative that provides a safe space for youth to interact with art without judgment. The project aims to foster community unity and facilitate dialogue between law enforcement, community leaders, and young individuals.
Ankomah expressed, “My passion lies in using art to elevate social consciousness and initiate discussions on issues impacting our youth and society as a whole. ‘Re-claim’ is a project I established to address the pressing concern of knife crime, allowing young people to share their experiences and perspectives freely. By bringing the community together through public installations, we create a platform for honest and authentic conversations among various stakeholders.”
His commitment to social advocacy extends beyond his artistic endeavors, as he continues to participate in various award shows throughout the year. Ankomah’s distinctive briefcase style has become synonymous with his identity, serving as a symbol of inspiration for the community and youth amidst life’s challenges and adversities.
