Sarah Asante

My art is influenced by pop art, religion, culture, and people. These subjects intertwine in my mind, and I translate them onto paper. As an artist of both African and Asian heritage, my background strongly informs my practice. In both cultures, color is used boldly, so my work is sometimes vibrant and loud, and at other times muted and complementary.

During my travels to India and Ghana, I was inspired by the people, architecture, jewelry, and patterned fabrics I encountered. The use of color to celebrate, to mourn, or to signify tribal identity deeply interests me. I explore how messages and ideas are communicated through pattern and color in my work.

Most of my vibrant pieces are created during the day, while more muted works tend to be made in the evening or at night. I enjoy working while listening to music, especially pop, which helps the flow of my process and influences the outcome.

Each element of my work is cut individually, and placement is essential to achieve balance. I match colors slowly and thoughtfully. Patterns naturally emerge, and I guide the viewer’s eye toward specific areas, inviting them to experience unexpected combinations of pattern and color.

In the future, I hope to create projects that more directly reflect my heritage through the use of diverse materials, colors, and fabrics. I am excited to explore new media while continuing to develop my distinctive style.