"What We're Watching" is our ongoing series dedicated to highlighting global programming as pertains to fashion, design, and culture (and the business engines behind them) all across the diaspora. This week’s edition focuses on a duo of visual artists debuting two in-person exhibitions: Amoako Boafo and Mosie Romney.

CHICAGO, United States — Amoako Boafo and I STAND BY ME

Off the back of an inspiring collaboration with Dior Homme, Ghanaian portraitist Amoako Boafo will unveil his first solo exhibition at Mariane Ibrahim Gallery in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago. His richly layered portraits — best known for his finger paint techniques to render the body — had a electrifying solo preview back in December 2019 during Art Basel, but the Accra, Ghana-born artist has been honing his practice since at least 2007 when he was awarded Best Abstract Painter of the Year at Ghanatta College of Art and Design. Entitled I STAND BY ME, the show brings forth never-before-seen works depicting Boafo’s cast of characters taken seemingly from real life and imagination. Described as a “moment of reflection during this time of crisis, emphasizing the notion of autonomy and self reflection, a call to preserve one's integrity and independence,” these abstract representations of blackness are stories unto themselves with priority solely given to the subject. With a fair share of artist exhibitions cancelled, postponed, or relegated to virtual rooms, it is a truly special treat to experience these works in person (safely, of course). On view September 10 to October 24.

NEW YORK, United States — Mosie Romney and Evening Lark

Also on view this week is Queens, New York-based painter Mosie Romney, who debuts four new works for their first solo exhibition Evening Lark via Y2K group in New York. Inspired by photographic familial record and found objets such as bells or broaches acquired online, they intertwine symbolism into an emotional dreamscape with biographical and ceremonial undertones. Their works act as a salve, so saturated in warm tones that wash the viewer with an invitation to embrace these fantasy worlds. A deft hand with oil on canvas, Romney leaves room to behold and uncover something familiar yet strange in only four works that range from the intimate to the expansive.

A must-see on view by appointment September 5 to October 10.