MASI kaunched to honour late artist Mardey Ohui Ofoe

A new initiative aimed at nurturing artistic talent and empowering creatives in Ghana has been launched in honour of the late artist, Mardey Ohui Ofoe.

The institute, named the Mardey Memorial Arts Support Institute (MASI), was officially unveiled at the Lashibi Funeral Home at the final funeral rites in Accra.

Family members, friends, and members of the creative arts community were at the funeral.

The launch was performed by Mawusi Nudekor, founder of Network Women in Growth, who commended the initiative as a timely and impactful intervention to support emerging artists and promote inclusivity within the creative space.

Significantly, the event coincided with World Art Day, a global celebration of the fine arts, further underscoring the relevance of the institute’s mission to promote creativity and cultural expression.

The organisers described MASI as a “living tribute” to the late Mardey Ohui Ofoe, whose work and influence in the arts extended beyond aesthetics to storytelling, empowerment, and community building.

The Institute will operate on three key pillars: a photography award to support emerging visual storytellers, an award scheme dedicated to promoting women artists, and a curated art exhibition to be held every three years. These initiatives are designed to sustain the legacy of the late artist while contributing to the growth of Ghana’s creative sector.

“Mardey was a visionary whose passion for art was deeply rooted in impact and inclusion,” a representative noted. “Through MASI, her commitment to uplifting voices—especially those often overlooked—will continue to thrive.”

Attendees were also encouraged to support the initiative through financial contributions, partnerships, and other forms of assistance to ensure its sustainability.

The launch formed part of the broader activities marking the final funeral rites of the late artist, whose life and work were celebrated for their enduring influence on Ghana’s artistic landscape.

The establishment of MASI is expected to provide a platform for emerging talents while reinforcing the role of art as a tool for expression, dialogue, and social change.