Ghanaian artist, Kojo AsamoahSarpong (K.A.S.), Friday, injected innovation into Ghana's art scene with the exhibition of ingeniously crafted lamps made from biodegradable and recycled materials.

The Lumiere Exhibition, held at Cahaya Lounge, premiered K.A.S.'s lamp designs along with other functional household items made with renewable materials.  

The Lumiere exhibition was birthed from K.A.S's interest in utilizing light to create moods and shift emotion. The works also come from the K.A.S.'s passion to educate Ghanaians on recycling and reuse of items generally discarded. The exhibition showcased unconventional pieces such as a sink basin supported by a brass bicycle; paper chandeliers suspended from treated tree branches, reading nest with bamboo frames, etc. Each piece classifies as classic contemporary art but is supported by reusable material.

K.A.S. began his artistic journey a year ago, upon his return to Ghana.  He searched for an economical and classical way to furnish, after realizing furniture in Ghana were too expensive. Mr. Sarpong began researching and crafting furniture using biodegradable materials. Each piece incorporates an element of nature, such as wood, raw tree branches, bamboo, and designs inspired by nature. The finished products integrate aspects of nature and is transformed into something that can be kept in a home. 

"I look at wood and I don't see just wood, I see great designs that are impossible to recreate, so I incorporate them," said Mr. Sarpong.

Mr. Sarpong's artwork consists of functional pieces that can be used as furniture or storage spaces. The goal is to reduce the carbon print and promote a clean environment with the reuse of material. The artist was featured as a change maker in the Lincoln Community School programme, where he talked to the students about reducing pollution and reusing material to promote a clean environment. 

"I want to have an impact on our society because our generation is very wasteful." Mr. Sarpong's creation is as educational as it is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

K.A.S. is an experienced software engineer with a Computer Science degree from the University of Western Cape (Cape Town, South Africa). He plans to continue educating Ghanaians about environmental sustainability with the expansion of his artistry.