Ghana-Peru Arts Contest Returns for Second Edition to Deepen Cultural Bonds
The Embassy of Peru in Ghana has launched the second edition of the Ghana-Peru Arts Contest, an annual cultural initiative designed to strengthen artistic exchange and friendship between two nations separated by an ocean but united, organisers say, by a shared heritage.
The contest, officially launched on June 10, invites Ghanaian artists aged between 15 and 25 to submit original, handmade works across three categories: painting, drawing and pencil work, and sculpture or other visual art forms. Submissions close on September 17, 2026, with an awards ceremony and exhibition scheduled for October at the University of Ghana’s Great Hall in Accra.
Peru’s Ambassador to Ghana, Rosa Liliana Gómez Cárdenas de Weston, described the initiative as an exercise in cultural diplomacy that goes beyond mere competition. “Diplomacy is the language of comprehension, understanding and friendship,” she said at the launch. “Cultural diplomacy promotes cultural appreciation, global awareness, inclusivity, heritage preservation, and provides enrichment to the society.”
The ambassador drew attention to the historical threads connecting the two countries, particularly the Afro-Peruvian heritage that echoes through Peruvian music, cuisine and tradition. “Peru and Ghana, though separated by an ocean, share the same soul,” she said. “An important binding element between both countries is the Afro-Peruvian heritage through culture, rhythm and food.”
The contest is being organised in partnership with Ghassan Yared, the Honorary Consul of Peru in Tema, whose financial support has secured the event as an annual fixture. “I am very pleased to announce that thanks to the generosity of the Peruvian Honorary Consul this contest will be celebrated on a yearly basis,” Ambassador Cárdenas de Weston confirmed.
Cash prizes of $300 await each category winner, with an additional $200 for the overall best entry, bringing the top prize to $500 alongside a certificate and a Peruvian handicraft. Six further honourable mentions will be recognised without cash awards.
The competition rules are strict on originality. All entries must be entirely handmade—AI-generated work will not be accepted. Artists must first submit their work electronically; those shortlisted will then be invited to present their pieces in person for final judging.
The contest arrives at a moment when Ghana’s creative economy is gaining increasing recognition on the international stage. Ghanaian professionals have recently earned honours at international forums, and initiatives like the arts contest offer younger creatives a platform to build cross-cultural connections that could shape their careers.
For young Ghanaian artists, the message is straightforward: create something that tells the story of Ghana and Peru’s friendship, and let the work speak for itself.
Image Source: GHANAIAN TIMES
