The Artists Alliance Gallery is one of the best places in Accra to see and buy contemporary Ghanaian art. It was founded by the celebrated Ghanaian painter Ablade Glover and has become a well-known cultural hub, with exhibitions running from traditional African art to contemporary and abstract works. Over three floors you will find paintings, sculptures, photographs and mixed-media pieces, alongside collectors’ items such as Asafo flags and old strip-woven kente cloth. A big part of its appeal is that the gallery sells art directly from the artists, so you can see what is on offer without the pressure of a high-end boutique, and prices vary widely, so there is something for modest budgets as well as serious collectors. The gallery also runs events and workshops and works with local artists and artisans. It is in Labadi, close to the beach, so it pairs naturally with an afternoon by the sea.
Visiting: the gallery is in Labadi, in Accra’s eastern coastal area, and is easiest to reach by ride-hail taxi or hired car. We could not confirm current opening hours from a page we could load, so check the gallery’s website or contact page before you go, especially if you are travelling on a Sunday or a public holiday. Entry has historically been free to browse, but check, as this was reported years ago.
What to look for: start on the ground floor and work up, and look for work by established names as well as emerging artists. Ask the staff about the artists behind the pieces, as they are usually happy to share the stories. If you want to buy, ask about shipping and about export paperwork for larger works, since sculptures and big canvases can be awkward to carry home. Smaller prints, carvings and cloth are easier to take in a suitcase.
Making the most of it: allow an hour or more, and bargain politely only where it is clearly welcome, since fine art prices are usually more fixed than market goods. The gallery is a short drive from Labadi Beach and the Labadi Beach Hotel. If you enjoy it, ask for a recommendation of other galleries and studios in Accra. It is a calm, air-conditioned contrast to the beach and the markets, and a good rainy-day option.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided browse through a three-storey gallery of Ghanaian paintings, sculpture and crafts, with staff happy to explain the artists and works.
Best time
A weekday afternoon, after checking the gallery’s website for current hours, for the quietest browsing.
How long
About one to two hours.
Tips
Check opening hours first, ask about shipping for larger pieces and look for smaller prints or carvings that fit in a suitcase.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Art lovers and souvenir hunters who want authentic Ghanaian work rather than mass-produced crafts.
- Families
- Fine for older children who like art, but this is a gallery rather than a hands-on attraction.
- Couples
- A relaxed, air-conditioned stop where you might find a memorable piece to take home.
- Pair with
- Labadi Beach, a few minutes away.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Who founded the Artists Alliance Gallery?+
It was founded by the Ghanaian painter Ablade Glover. It has grown into one of Accra’s best-known cultural hubs.
Can you buy art at the Artists Alliance Gallery?+
Yes, the gallery sells art directly from the artists, from paintings and sculpture to cloth and crafts. Prices vary widely, so there are options for different budgets.
Where is the gallery?+
It is in Labadi, on the eastern coastal side of Accra, near Labadi Beach. A ride-hail taxi is the easiest way to get there.
Is there an entry fee?+
Older guides describe it as free to browse, but check the gallery’s website for current terms. Opening hours should also be confirmed in advance.
Can I ship purchases home?+
Ask the staff about shipping and export paperwork, especially for large paintings or sculptures. Smaller items are easy to carry in luggage.