Without curators, many artists we know and love today would not have experienced a breakthrough in the art scene. One curator, Larry Ossei-Mensah, demonstrated unwavering determination to make a cultural shift and give a voice to the voiceless in contemporary art.

Mensah is a first-generation Ghanaian-American curator who was raised in the South Bronx in New York. He was first introduced to the art world by his surroundings growing up and influenced by people in his community looking for space to express themselves. In a statement with Collecteurs, he said, “Art has helped me to understand the world around me, so I want to pass that on to those who see my exhibitions.” He also stated, “I want to create a sense that art is for everyone, not just a specific audience.” Mensah has always been the type of person who shares that knowledge with others and opens rooms for them to get noticed. He believes in giving chances to those who usually would not get a chance in these environments.