Collage Portrait of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Displayed in Iconic Block at Barbados University
A portrait of the King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has been proudly displayed inside the iconic Hilary McDonald Beckles Administration Block of the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados.
The portrait by Ghanaian mosaic and collage artist Eric Kwadwo Afranie was unveiled in the new building, whose brick was laid some 17 years ago by the Asantehene.
Titled Custodian of Heritage, the portrait was unveiled in the presence of His Majesty on November 12, 2025.
The intricate piece crafted from repurposed Lego, beads and metal scraps captures the essence of His Majesty’s authority, cultural significance and enduring influence on the Asante people.
“It is a compelling collage artwork that honours Otumfuo, the King of the Asante people of Ghana, celebrating his legacy and leadership as the custodian of tradition.”
Golden Stool Descent Painting
Also seated in the Golden-stool-inspired building is a painting by Ras Akyem Akin-Yemi Ramsey depicting the mystery of the descent of the soul of the Asante Kingdom.
The painting was sanctioned by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Hilary McDonald Beckles.
Explaining the development, Ras said he intentionally created the painting to retain its mystery.
According to him, the painting doesn’t require verbal deconstruction but spiritual engagement and experience.
“When I was commissioned to conceptualise the concept of this historic moment, I didn’t want to follow a literary narrative. I just wanted to conjure a moment of history and the moment where the actual evidence and presence of the stool is not in the painting because it is a moment of anticipation.”
Golden Stool-inspired Block
According to Hilary McDonald Beckles, the building was strategically designed to give all visitors a feeling of history and reconnection with the ancestors.
Speaking about its location, he said, it was intended to offer inspiration to all who enter Bridgetown.
“We have located it on this site… because when you’re in the city of Bridgetown and you look up, what you see is the stool. It was chosen for that reason so that the majority of our people at all times will always be looking for inspiration from the stool.”
Baobab Tree
Standing next to the Administration Block is a 17-year-old Baobab tree that was planted by the King during his first visit.
“We were honoured when you gave us the gift of the Baobab tree, which is in splendid growth on the periphery of this building,” the VC said.
Story by Hajara Fuseini
Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/
