Exploring the Intersection of Art, Culture, and Mental Illness: Jojo Abdallah’s ‘Psy-tch’ Exhibit at the National Museum of Ghana

I had the opportunity to attend an art exhibit at the National Museum of Ghana, organized in collaboration with the Compound House Gallery and the Accra Psychiatric Hospital. This exhibit, titled “Psy-tch,” featured the work of Jojo Abdallah, and the gallery was curated by Robin Riskin. It ran from June 29th to July 28th, 2024. The Mental Health Authority also contributed to this exhibit, and Dr. Nana Dansoah, from the Mental Health Authority brought me along to experience it for the first time with her.

What fascinated me most about this exhibit was its profound exploration of the intersection between art, culture, and mental illness. Abdallah, a talented Ghanaian artist deeply connected to his cultural roots, lives with schizophrenia. In his case, schizophrenia manifests as the creation of intricate, fantastical narratives that he perceives as reality. This unique perspective infuses his art with a raw and unfiltered authenticity that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

Despite being a patient at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Abdallah has created stunning artwork that reflects his personal truths. The support he receives, particularly from the hospital’s occupational therapy department, has been vital to his artistic journey. This support allows him to blend various histories, some imagined, and intertwine different truths from around the world. Even though these narratives may not always make sense, Abdallah curates them into believable art as they align with his own perceptions of reality. Abdallah, who is homeless, will be using half of the proceeds from the exhibition to pay for his rent, underscoring the practical impact of the support he receives and the importance of this exhibit.

The exhibit featured a range of mixed-media works and paintings, each offering a unique glimpse into Abdallah’s mind. His use of vibrant colors, bold brushstrokes, and intricate detailing draws viewers into his world, inviting them to see reality through his eyes. Each piece tells a story, often layered with cultural symbols and personal references that challenge viewers to question their own perceptions of reality.

I had the chance to speak with Robin Riskin, the gallery organizer, who provided further insight into the exhibit’s themes and the modern perspectives integrated into the artwork. Her explanations helped me understand how Abdallah’s work not only conveys his inner world but also challenges societal perceptions of mental illness. She emphasized the importance of seeing beyond the illness and recognizing the unique artistic voice that emerges from Abdallah’s experiences.

One painting, in particular, depicted an image of Jesus with two other individuals. In the biblical story, Jesus is an integral part of the scene. However, Riskin explained that Abdallah reimagined this image by placing himself in the position of Jesus, observing the story from an external perspective. Riskin noted that Abdallah often incorporates himself and his name into his paintings, reflecting his personal interpretation of reality. This reimagining challenges traditional narratives and invites viewers to consider alternative perspectives on well-known stories.

The experience was both enlightening and moving, highlighting the powerful role of art in expressing complex mental health experiences. It reminded me of the importance of supporting artists like Abdallah, whose work offers profound insights into the human condition. The exhibit not only showcased the resilience and creativity of an individual living with mental illness but also served as a powerful testament to the therapeutic potential of art.

(Nana’s husband, Nana, and Me!)