Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has emphasised the importance of providing artists of African descent with the same opportunities as their Western counterparts.

He highlighted the need for their works to be showcased in galleries and museums worldwide, opening up the global market to them.

During a lecture in the United Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stated, “African artists need to be appreciated. They have to be seen to be appreciated like all other artists. They can only be seen through museums and galleries. Opening the market to them and expanding the rate of opportunities should be part of the global conversation.”

He also stressed the importance of collaboration among museums and cultural institutions for development.

“I urge the continuous pursuit of collaboration with museums and advanced cultural institutions, renewed attention to training and the Creative Arts, and a vigorous effort to expand market opportunities for works of African artists.”

Addressing concerns about the restitution of looted artefacts, he remarked, “The quest for restitution should be no reason for closing the market to our artists. On the contrary, it should highlight the value of African arts to museums and collectors for legitimate acquisition.”

His Majesty delivered these remarks as the Guest Speaker at the British Museum on Friday, July 19, 2024, calling for a global effort to appreciate and promote African artists.