Sarah's Stories: Le Palais de Lomé – A Gateway to Togo's Soulful Art Scene
On a fresh morning in Lomé, Togo, as the city quietly came to life, I arrived at Le Palais de Lomé. Built in the late 19th century under German colonial rule as a governor’s residence, this beautifully restored palace is now a hidden gem for art lovers. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it stands as both a testament to history and a modern refuge for creativity.
Walking through its graceful corridors, I was captivated by the harmonious blend of old and new. Grand arches, high ceilings, and streams of natural light showcased each artwork, inviting a serene connection. Every artist I spoke with considered Le Palais a magical sanctuary where their work could breathe and inspire.
The Late Kossi Aguessy: A Design Pioneer
My first stop was a tribute to the visionary late designer Kossi Aguessy, a Togolese artist whose work left an indelible mark on contemporary design. Known for his innovative approach that fuses African heritage with cutting-edge aesthetics, Aguessy’s legacy continues to inspire. Viewing his work felt like stepping into the mind of someone who redefined African design on a global scale—a reminder of Togo’s contributions to the creative world, often overlooked but deeply impactful.
Clément’s Artwork: An Embrace of Connection
Born in 1993 in Lomé, Clément Ayikoué Gbegno is a deeply committed Togolese artist. With a background in philosophy, Clément’s work is driven by a profound curiosity about life’s cycles and the nature of transformation. His dedication to his craft runs deep—so much so that he sold his land to fund his studies at the Fine Art School of Abidjan in Ivory Coast.
Through painting and sculpture, Clément brings a spiritual depth to his themes of rebirth and metamorphosis, often reflecting on the impermanence of existence. His art carries a quiet reverence for the interconnectedness of life, channeling a meditative focus on the process of becoming, evolving, and renewing. Exhibiting across Africa and Europe, Clément’s work is a soulful blend of philosophy, heritage, and spiritual introspection.
Thierry Tomety’s Untitled Blue Masterpiece
Recently back from an artist residency in Morocco, Thierry Tomety brought fresh depth to his work. Originally a software developer, Thierry’s art explores cycles—destruction, reconstruction, strength, and fragility. His untitled blue piece, beautifully exhibited at Le Palais de Lomé, draws viewers into a space between reality and fantasy. When asked why it remained untitled, he simply said, “The title didn’t come—I don’t like to force things.” Recognized from Lomé to New York, Thierry’s work makes a lasting impact on Togo’s contemporary scene.
Tesprit’s Art of Hidden Stories
Born in 1994 in Lomé, Tesprit (Foli Kossi Gérard TETE) is a self-taught artist who sheds light on the lives of Togo’s street children, the Dzimakplao. Using discarded slippers from Lomé’s dumps, Tesprit builds textured canvases that reveal the vulnerability, joy, and quiet strength in these children’s lives. His faceless, colorful figures evoke both the challenges and enduring spirit found on the streets, inviting deeper compassion. Meeting Tesprit uncovered the profound depth behind each piece—a tribute to the hidden stories of Togo’s youth.
Kwami Da Costa and Jaback: The Heart of Lomé’s Suburban Art Scene
Further enriching my understanding of Togo’s art scene, I ventured beyond the Palais to meet Kwami and Jaback at Le Centre Culturel ATEBAÏ in the suburbs of Lomé. As director of the Carrefour des Arts association, Kwami channels Togolese traditions, like the adi améno (placenta burial), into his art, exploring themes of heritage and identity. Recently back from a residency in Benin, he shared how these traditions anchor his work.
Jaback, the director of ATEBAÏ, brings a unique approach, blending traditional influences with a modern edge by incorporating recycled animal bones into his large-scale paintings. Together, they infuse ATEBAÏ with vibrant energy, making it a lively hub where local artists gather to share ideas and inspire one another.
Uncovering Togo: A Soulful Destination for Art Lovers
As I left Le Palais de Lomé, reflecting on my encounters with these artists, I felt deeply connected to the soulful essence of Togo’s art—a powerful blend of heritage and creativity that resonates in profound ways. Another introspective Togolese artist, Pierre Segoh, is already known for his striking autopsy of emotions, revealing layers of the human experience.
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