My practice is inspired by the beauty and horror of society, as well as my childhood experiences. With this inspiration, I create thought-provoking collage works made entirely of pieces of discarded newspapers, which draw from and impact society with the aim of embracing purpose, hope, love, beauty, culture, and justice through the vulnerability of childhood.

Each of my works literally speaks for itself, engaging and inviting viewers to navigate each piece with deep thoughts. One can't help but interact with the dynamics of spontaneously arranged, juxtaposed, and superimposed ripped-out pieces of newspapers on canvas. The textural effects, the somber and sometimes brilliant colors, some incorporated keywords that accompany the narrative behind each work, and the engaging facial expressions of my subjects (which in most cases are figurative portraits of children) all contribute to the tactile quality and elemental identity of my work.

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Richmond Yaw Adjei, born in 1997, is a contemporary artist celebrated for his captivating portraits meticulously crafted from newsprint. Based in Accra, Ghana, Yaw’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in his childhood passion for craft and recycled art. He received his early education in Accra and went on to study Visual Art in high school. Despite facing discouragement from his family and controversies surrounding his choice of study, Yaw's unquenchable passion for art led him to Takoradi Technical University in 2017. He now holds a Higher National Diploma in Industrial Art and Design (Painting option).

Drawn to the informative and archival nature of newsprint, Yaw embraces themes of purpose, hope, love, beauty, culture, and justice through the vulnerability of childhood. Inspired by his surroundings and childhood experiences, Yaw’s art has gained recognition both locally and internationally. His pieces, primarily composed of newsprint, have been showcased in exhibitions across Ghana and the USA.

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