UEW Students Honoured for Innovative Photomontage Portrait
Three students from the Department of Art Education at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) received recognition from Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, a renowned Ghanaian businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist, following the presentation of an innovative photomontage portrait of him.
The artwork, titled “Picture-in-Picture (PIP) Portrait of Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong,” was created by Nathaniel Amoako Sam (@nasartz_creations), Emmanuel Odoom (@winnebaartist) and Natasha Boateng Frimpong (Tasha Fremps) as part of the Projects in Dry Media course in the Department of Art Education. Dr. Theophilus Kwesi Mensah and Mr. Edward Buxton taught the course.
The Projects in Dry Media course challenges students to move beyond conventional painting methods and explore alternative artistic approaches using techniques such as photomontage, collage, mosaic, pyrography, marquetry and other dry media processes. Through experimentation with texture, tone, colour, line and found materials, students develop both technical competence and creative expression.
Inspired by Dr. Ofori Sarpong's contributions to leadership, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and service to humanity, the students created a portrait that communicates more than a physical likeness. The Picture-in-Picture artwork was meticulously assembled from thousands of miniature photographs, symbolising the people, moments and experiences that shape an individual's journey and legacy.
According to the artists, the work was driven by the belief that no successful person stands alone. Each photograph represents a fragment of a larger narrative, reflecting the impact Dr. Ofori Sarpong has had on many lives. The project required patience, planning and technical precision to achieve accurate proportions, tonal balance and visual harmony.
The portrait garnered substantial attention on social media and ultimately attracted the interest of Dr. Ofori Sarpong, who subsequently requested a meeting with the individuals responsible for the artwork.
Expressing his admiration for the portrait, Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong described the artwork as “marvellous” and stated, “I have not seen anything like this in my lifetime.” He was particularly impressed by the collection of photographs used to create the portrait including both black-and-white and coloured images from different stages of his life.
He further commended the students for their creativity, innovation and dedication. He noted the uniqueness and impact of the work and appreciated the hard work they put into it. He presented a token of support to the three student artists.
Commending the students on their achievement, Dr. Theophilus Kwesi Mensah stated, “This project perfectly reflects the objectives of the Projects in Dry Media course. Nathaniel, Emmanuel and Natasha embraced the challenge of exploring alternative media and produced a work of exceptional creativity, technically skilled and with conceptual depth.”
Mr. Edward Buxton also praised the students, saying, “The Picture-in-Picture portrait is a remarkable example of contemporary photomontage practice. The students demonstrated discipline, patience and artistic sensitivity in creating a portrait that not only captures the likeness of Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong but also tells a compelling story about his influence and legacy.”
The achievement highlights the Department of Art Education's commitment to fostering innovation, experimentation and excellence through practical art education while preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society through creative practice.
