Rita Mawuena Benissan, a Ghanaian-American interdisciplinary artist, is spearheading a movement to reclaim Africa’s historical narratives. Furthermore, she is resolute in countering the distorted perceptions shaped by the Western gaze. In 2020, Benissan founded ‘Si Hene,’ a non-profit foundation dedicated to collecting and preserving archives. These archives narrate stories about Ghana’s chieftaincy and traditional culture. The foundation aims to raise awareness of Ghana’s royal history and make it accessible globally through digital media.
Si Hene means “Enstoolment” in Ghana’s Akan language. It refers to the process of elevating a chief to power in various African ethnic groups. In an interview with ARTnews, Benissan highlighted the significance of recording and preserving Ghana’s chieftaincy and traditional culture. She emphasized that chieftaincy serves as the backbone of Ghanaian culture.
Benissan also stressed that her Ghanaian identity enables her to present information more accurately. She emphasized the importance of revealing the true perspectives held by royals. She also mentioned the importance of accurately translating the names and pronunciations of cities, dances, instruments, and other objects. Telling stories from a Western perspective often leads to misleading narratives. Such narratives lack the profound understanding that emerges from being rooted in the region or studying the subject in Ghana.
Benissan is currently fundraising to establish a physical museum and research institute. The institute will house visual archives related to Ghana’s chieftaincy and traditional culture. A physical building would allow the community to engage with the photos, books, artifacts, and other visual sources in person. This will facilitate broader discussions and interactions that highlight the importance of Ghana’s history.
Reflecting on her experience exhibiting her work, at the 2022 Dakar Biennale, Benissan expressed her excitement and gratitude. Participating in the biennale was a dream come true for her early in her art career. She states that the exhibition allowed her to document Ghana’s royal history showcasing the power of individuals to shape and reclaim their own stories. Through Si Hene, she is actively preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage.
