Tropical Modernism: Architecture & Power in West Africa, 2023

Location Venice

Client Victoria & Albert Museum

Curators Bushra Mohamed, Nana Biamah-Ofosu, Christopher Turner

Collaborators Nana Biamah-Ofosu - exhibition design; Studio Boris Meister - graphic design; Lara Garcia Reyne - editor; Charie Laing - director of photography, Francesco Anselmo - lighting, The Architectural Association, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology

Tropical Modernism: Architecture & Power in West Africa was presented in the Applied Arts Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale in 2023 and curated by Bushra Mohamed, Christopher Turner, and Nana Biamah-Ofosu.

The exhibition examined the development of Tropical Modernism, from its colonial origins to its later adaptation as a symbol of Pan-African identity after Ghana’s independence in 1957. Msoma Architects were involved in co-curating and designing the exhibition, using spatial storytelling to create an immersive, thought-provoking visitor experience. By blending architectural elements with film, archival materials, and digital storytelling, we created a multi-sensory journey while offering insights into the future of sustainable architecture.

A key feature of the design was a 35-metre brise soleil installation, serving as both a visually striking sculptural element and a practical display framework, balancing form and function in a way that underscored the exhibition’s themes. This modular structure, inspired by the architectural language of Fry and Drew, provided a dynamic way to display photographs, artefacts, and archival materials. Sustainable design was a priority, with the use of modular Valcromat panels enabling cost-effective, reusable construction. The modular design facilitated curatorial changes later in the programme.

The three channel 30min film, through panoramic views of key buildings, including the Community Centre in Accra and the KNUST Campus in Kumasi, provided a strong connection to these spaces. Firsthand accounts from figures such as architect John Owusu-Addo and Samia Nkrumah, along with archival footage, placed the architecture within its political and historical context. We worked closely with the film team to enhance the cinematic experience within the listed historic context of the Arsenale, ensuring seamless integration between space, storytelling, and visual media.