Crossing Borders with Watercolour

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CHF6,177 raised of CHF7K

Crossing Borders with Watercolour

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This November, Mulhouse, France—the birthplace of the art3f International Contemporary Art Fair—will welcome artists from across the globe to a vibrant celebration of contemporary art.

Among them, we hope to present Nkwaye, an exceptional watercolourist and graphic designer whose work spans cultures and Afrofuturism. His dossier has already been accepted by the curating committee—now, the final challenge is getting him there.

I’m Marita, and I’m fundraising to help Nkwaye bring his dark, soul-stirring art to this landmark event. art3f Mulhouse isn’t just a fair—it’s a crossroads of creativity, where stories unfold in colour and borders dissolve in the language of art.

Let’s get him there!

MEET NKWAYE
Born and raised in Accra, Ghana, Nkwaye is part of the third-generation Ansah lineage of artists. After more than a decade working in audio and visual creative direction, he has returned to his visual voice—where he gives form to the strange, difficult thoughts that often defy words.

Nkwaye’s portraits and compositions channel the spirit of 1980s graphic design and comic book illustration, blending technical mastery with a style that’s both nostalgic and sensually engaging. His surreal compositions combine bold African retro-cool aesthetics with tech-inspired Afrofuturist themes. His work goes beyond striking visuals—each piece carries emotional depth through painstaking ink detailing and layered, ethereal watercolour washes.

THE WORK
Nkwaye will present a selection of watercolour and inked pieces that reflect his vivid imagination and his unique vibe. Each work captures a moment of movement and emotion, where fluid colour meets bold penwork to tell stories that feel personal yet universally relatable.

WHY CROWDFUNDING?
Art fairs like art3f are incredible platforms, but they come with significant costs—especially for independent artists. The financial responsibilities, from booth fees to the logistics of transportation and accommodation, are daunting.

As an artist from Ghana, Nkwaye’s path to exhibiting in Europe involves more than just financial hurdles. There are visa complexities, logistical challenges, and the emotional weight of entering spaces that have historically excluded voices like his.

European art fairs often favour artists with institutional backing, gallery representation, or established networks—privileges that are not equally accessible across continents. Nkwaye is self-represented, navigating this journey with grit, talent, and the support of his local network.

By contributing to this campaign, you’re not just funding a trip—you’re dismantling barriers and making space for a Ghanaian artist to be seen, heard, and celebrated on a global stage.

WHY AM I DOING THIS?
Nkwaye’s work moves me in ways I can’t fully express. I’ve witnessed the dedicated craftsmanship and brilliance he pours into every painting. I believe in his vision, and I believe the world needs to see it.

This campaign is my way of raising Nkwaye's stage—and inviting you to join me.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN - amounts in CHF (Swiss Francs):
(CHF 1.00 = USD 1.25 or EUR 1.10)

  • Art3f Booth Fee - CHF 2,130.00
  • Framing & mounting of Artwork - CHF 3,000.00
  • Logistics and storage of Artwork - CHF 2,000.00
  • Travel (round trip) / visa - CHF 1,400.00
  • Accommodation (one week) - 900.00
  • Promotional Materials - 150.00
  • Insurance & Contingency - 500.00

Every donation counts. Whether you give CHF 1 or CHF 500, you’re part of this journey.

TIMELINE
  • Now – October 2025: Fundraising and preparation
  • Early November 2025: Final logistics and packing
  • 14–16 November 2025: Exhibition at art3f Mulhouse
  • Post-Fair: Updates, thank-yous, and sharing the experience with all supporters

THANK YOU
Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting. Let’s help Nkwaye move the world with his art!

Organizer

Marita van Landewijk
Organizer
Basel, BS
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