Stefania Manfreda: Creating Spaces for Artistic Expression

Change Africa Podcast

Stefania Manfreda is an Art Enthusiast, Creative Director, and Curator, creating spaces that foster curiosity, experimentation, and self-expression in Ghanaian artists. She is the founder of the unique multi-brand women’s concept space, Elle Lokko, and creative art space, The Container.

Stefania’s appreciation and love for creative spaces begin from her experiences in the immersive and culture-rich streets of Milan where she studied for most of her life. She describes her periodic visits to Ghana which highlighted the gaps and opportunities which existed in contrast to the already-established industries of Italy and further solidified her resolve to settle in Ghana where she could capitalize on opportunities and make a tangible impact.

She shares the story of her introduction to Ghana's arts and fashion space through the design and sale of branded t-shirts that mirrored the everyday experiences of the average Ghanaian. This first venture, she tells us, gradually evolved into curating art, collaborating with other artists, and creating a space for expression by other creatives. We discuss Lokko House and Elle Lokko - her fashion-related brands bridging the gap between clothing designers and customers.

Stefania describes the positive impact and opportunities the growing Ghanaian art space has had on making Ghana a tourist destination and increasing the patronage of the works of artists through festivals like the Chalewote Festival. Stefania shares her thoughts on the definition of art, interrogating the idea of constraining artists to fit a particular mold in an era where expression through art boasts a myriad of variations. We discuss her work with several burgeoning artists and creatives, and her use of spaces such as The Container to encourage self-exploration and self-experimentation in a bid to churn out the next generation of unique Ghanaian creatives.

Stefania shares her vision of creating an institute and workspace for honing and developing creative talents through practical interactions which allow them to explore their curiosities. She juxtaposes the art spaces of Italy and Ghana and highlights lessons that can be implemented towards improving the reputation of Ghana as a destination for art enthusiasts across the world.

Links and Resources:

Find Stefania Manfreda on LinkedIn

This podcast is produced by Nexa Media

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