Government support for the arts industry is not enough — Aewura Arts

Ghanaian pencil artist Aewura Adjoa, known professionally as Aewura Arts, has urged the government to enhance its support for the arts industry, particularly for those involved in drawing. Speaking on Joy Learning TV and Joy News's The Career Trail programme, she pointed out that the current level of government backing for the arts is insufficient compared to the attention given to sectors like film and football.

While there are visible efforts in movie and football industries, artists must often rely on their own efforts to build sustainable careers. Aewura Arts emphasized that although there is visible effort, it's insufficient for the arts industry. "If you're not pushing yourself, you won't get far," she stated. The lack of support also impacts how parents perceive careers in the arts, with many being hesitant to encourage their children to follow such paths.

"Parents don’t also see the need to push their children or encourage their children to dive into the arts industry," she explained, noting this as a significant issue that needs addressing. Aewura Arts believes the government could introduce more initiatives, such as national arts festivals, to increase visibility for creatives and provide opportunities for those in the industry.

"You know, there are arts festivals; those are individual creative festivals. They are not organized by the government. So with that, I think the government can do better," she concluded.