What began as two individuals chasing their artistic aspirations has blossomed into a dynamic partnership redefining public art in Accra. Richmond Kweku Adu and Cashmere Opoku Ntiamoah—better known by their creative pseudonyms, Black and Akidi—are the duo behind the art collective Meet The Guys 360. Their vivid murals, brimming with nature’s essence and vibrant energy, are transforming everyday spaces into expressions of freedom and life’s fleeting beauty.
The two artists first crossed paths during their second year of art school, and their shared vision sparked an enduring bond. “Cashmere and I instantly connected on our artistic goals and ambitions,” Richmond reflects. Cashmere adds, “We’re more than classmates; we’re brothers for life.”
Their journey toward becoming graffiti artists was rooted in their early love of art, which later evolved through formal training in diverse mediums. While skilled in various forms, graffiti became their chosen outlet. “Graffiti allows us to engage directly with people, turning public spaces into vibrant canvases,” they explain. “It’s our way of adding color and character to everyday life.”
Nature has always been a central source of inspiration for Richmond and Cashmere. The natural world fuels their imagination, helping them craft pieces that evoke powerful emotions and memories. Their process, however, is anything but random. “We spend a lot of time brainstorming, researching, and drafting our ideas,” Richmond shares. “Accra provides plenty of inspiration, but the real magic happens during sketching and layering paint with precision and intent.”
The road hasn’t been without its challenges. The artists face hurdles common to the creative industry in Ghana, such as limited access to resources and a market still growing to appreciate local art. “The cost and availability of materials can hold us back at times,” Cashmere admits. “But we’ve learned to work with what we have and focus on building a strong portfolio.” Their advice to budding artists? Start where you are and let your work speak for itself.
Despite these obstacles, the duo has had many triumphs. Collaborations with other artists, participation in cultural festivals, and creating works that reflect Ghana’s rich heritage are some of their standout achievements. “We’ve been fortunate to share our art with wider audiences and immerse ourselves in different cultures. It’s been a rewarding journey,” they say.
Looking ahead, Richmond and Cashmere have big dreams. They aim to become household names in Ghanaian art, inspiring younger generations and reshaping the way public art is perceived. Through upcoming projects, including government commissions, they hope to bring even more life to Accra’s urban spaces.
Follow their journey on Instagram (@mtg360) as they unveil their latest works in the coming weeks. With their passion and talent, it’s clear that the story of Meet The Guys 360 is just beginning.
