Gagosian runs I Do Not Come to You by Chance, a new exhibition of works by Amoako Boafo in its London flagship until 24th May. Taking its title from Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s acclaimed 2009 novel, the show marks Boafo’s debut at Gagosian London and his first solo exhibition in the United Kingdom.

The presentation features a series of new paintings set within an immersive, thoughtfully designed environment created in collaboration with architect and designer Glenn DeRoche of DeRoche Projects. The duo previously partnered on dot.ateliers | Ogbojo, Boafo’s residency programme for writers and curators launched in Ogbojo, Ghana, in 2024. This latest exhibition continues Boafo’s ongoing investigation into the relationship between art, space, and community.

“I make paintings that allow me to celebrate where I come from and what I aspire to be, while sharing unique perspectives and understanding.” the artist said.

The courtyard installation transcends the conventional gallery interior and invites visitors to view paintings in a formative personal environment. The architectural intervention pays homage to Boafo’s early artistic experiences of communal spaces as sources of collaborative creativity akin to shared studios, where families observed one another, and local artists such as Aplerh-Doku Borlabi, Kwesi Botchway, Otis Kwame Kye Quaicoe, and Eric Adjei Tawiah often gathered to share materials and inspiration. The courtyard symbolizes a space of knowledge; it was here that Boafo learned what it means to share space, an experience that helped shape the foundation of his practice.

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Images: “Shoulder Stand” is among the works that will be on display at Amoako Boafo’s first solo UK show. 
Prudence Cuming Associates Ltd/Courtesy the artist/Gagosian and view of the exhibition