Sarfo Emmanuel Annor | Youthful Spirits: Paris, France

The Bridge Gallery is pleased to present Youthful Spirits, the second solo exhibition of Ghanaian artist Sarfo Emmanuel Annor in Paris, from March 19 to May 3, 2025. The exhibition takes its name from the artist’s new series, in which he invites us to follow the journey of a young woman from Koforidua, delicately exploring her emotional landscape and the tensions that mark her transition into adulthood.

Annor, known for his ability to capture the energy and sensitivity of African youth, delves here into the intimate. He depicts the dilemmas, aspirations, and forces at play in the journey of Ghanaian youth, particularly through the eyes of his niece. His works capture this defining moment, where childhood’s innocence and spontaneity merge with emerging responsibilities and aspirations.

In this new series, Annor has swapped his iPhone—previously his preferred working tool—for a camera, refining his approach to light, textures, and the emotions of his models. This technical shift opens new perspectives on his compositions, while his color palette remains a key element of his artistic language. Vibrant and expressive, it becomes a universal language, capable of resonating beyond cultural boundaries.

A recurring element marks this series: a rope stretched between two figures. This line, both an invisible thread and a manifest tension, symbolizes family and social ties, as well as the challenges that shape personal growth. Between attachment and emancipation, Annor questions our collective role: how can we support this transition while preserving each individual’s drive and uniqueness?