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Eugene Okertchiri

"I am Eugene Okertchiri born in Accra on December 16, 1965. I started my primary education in 1970 at the tender age of five; I later proceeded to elementary school where I sat for the common entrance examination. I came out successfully and was granted a five-year scholarship at Accra Academy School.

"I was hoping to get into the university after finishing my secondary school education in 1984, when an unfortunate incident happened. I lost my father, so all my dreams of university came to a halt. That was my greatest challenge in life, as I had to face the harsh realities of the world.

"I was very good in painting even when I was in primary school and in secondary school, I remember drawing my teacher sleeping in class. For that, I was suspended after receiving a whipping.

"Together with four other boys, I learned painting from the renowned artist Y. K. Anang. I get my inspiration from people who appreciate my paintings. I have trained ten young boys and four other children whom I teach after school. I give them training in African art together with outdoor advertising, such as billboards, banners, sign boards and perspective.

"I have participated in a number of exhibitions in Ghana. In addition, people come for my paintings and send them abroad for exhibitions. I have received awards while in school and recently was awarded a prize by an N.G.O in Germany. My favorite things in life are observing nature, especially animals, and I also like sports and listening to music in addition to my painting.

"My goals in life are to have my own modern art gallery and to become one of the best artists in the world. I'd like to teach young people more about African art."