INSPIRATION

Yaa is a feminine given name originating from the Akan day-naming system, meaning “born on a Thursday.” Day names are a cultural practice among the Akan people of Ghana. While some may believe it is mostly practiced by the Ashanti, it is actually observed by all Akan subgroups who follow traditional customs. People born on specific days are believed to embody the characteristics, attributes, and philosophies associated with those days.*

For this piece, the artist was inspired by the women named Yaa in his family. He observed that women with this name often share similar traits—they are creative, intelligent, and determined. This work serves as both an ode to and a tribute to them.

*Sources: Wikipedia and Dankyi Mensah