Signed Colorful Freestyle Painting of a Woman from Ghana, "Loneliness"

"I first became interested in art when I started school. There were many artisans who work and sell along the roadside. When I passed them by on the way to class, I felt the desire to do something like that.

"I learned to paint on my own. After seeing art I liked on the roadside, I'd try to recreate it when I got home. Later on, I took classes in painting.

"I use acrylics and they are slightly difficult to use because they dry quickly. I love painting musical instruments, market scenes and women. I am inspired by my environment and storybooks.

"After completing my studies, I began to paint and sell my work, but it was difficult at first. Some friends who worked beside me on the roadside were kind enough to help me sell my paintings. I didn't earn much at first, but I was able to save and eventually got my own place to paint.

"My friends discouraged me when I decided to pursue art. They told me art was for less knowledgeable people and that I shouldn't work on it but I didn't pay heed to them.

"Strangely enough, the same people who discouraged me now ask me to create paintings for them for free. Whenever this happens, I sit back and laugh.

"My dream is to have my own gallery some day and an art school to pass on my knowledge to others. I also hope to get married and start my own family."