Ghanaian artist Paa Joe blurs the distinction between art and craft. His coffins are sculpted to reflect the status held by their occupants during their lifetime. As such, they celebrate and affirm the individual's life. The spectacular nature of these coffins is a contemporary interpretation of traditional African burial ceremonies. The coffin recalls the pomp and extravagance of ancient Egyptian Royal tombs. However, we can also see the influence of contemporary American artists such as Jeff Koons. Like Koons, Paa Joe uses the kitsch to highlight the consumerism entrenched in contemporary society.

The artist has apprenticed with Kane Kwei, who is credited with beginning the 20th century tr...