Amoako Boafo – I Do Not Come to You by Chance

Amoako Boafo’s first London show is a vibrant, heartfelt celebration of Black joy, personal roots, and artistic community spirit. @Gagosian until May 24th. Visit: https://gagosian.com/exhibitions/2025/amoako-boafo-i-do-not-come-to-you-by-chance/

Amoako Boafo’s exhibition, I Do Not Come to You by Chance, is his first solo show in the UK, running at Gagosian London from April 10 to May 24, 2025. The title, inspired by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s 2009 novel, reflects Boafo’s exploration of identity, community, and Black joy. The exhibition features new portraits and a reimagined installation of Boafo’s childhood courtyard in Accra, designed with architect Glenn DeRoche. This immersive environment underscores Boafo’s commitment to community and artistic collaboration.​

Boafo employs a distinctive finger-painting technique, using oils to create textured, expressive figures. His portraits depict subjects in moments of celebration, rest, and connection, challenging stereotypes by portraying Black individuals with dignity and joy. The exhibition also honors collaborators like Aplerh-Doku Borlabi and Eric Adjei Tawiah, emphasizing the collective nature of his practice.​

Boafo’s work has garnered international acclaim, including a collaboration with Dior and a debut U.S. exhibition, Soul of Black Folks, at the Contemporary Art Museum Houston in 2022. His portraits, often featuring friends and family, aim to redefine narratives around Black identity, focusing on empowerment and visibility.​

I Do Not Come to You by Chance is a poignant exploration of identity, community, and the celebration of Black life.

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