Speaking from her residence in Kanifing Estate, Princess Adjoba recalled her introduction to Mr Ferry Donderer, the visionary behind ART27, through Mr Sanna Jarju, Director of Performing Arts at the National Centre for Arts and Culture. What began as a simple meeting quickly became a life‑changing opportunity.
“I was really impressed when I visited the ART27 Residency in Sanyang, where he runs a large studio and atelier open to all group members. I didn’t even know such a platform existed in The Gambia,” she said. For years, she had sought exhibition space at Alliance Française Banjul, only to find it perpetually booked or indifferent to her work. ART27 became the breakthrough she had long awaited.
Her admiration for Mr Ferry’s vision is immense. “Bravo, bravo, bravo, Mr Ferry. You’re doing an amazing job, and may Allah continue to bless the work of your hands,” she declared.
Princess Adjoba emphasised how ART27 is giving Gambian creatives the chance to showcase their talents both locally and internationally. With plans for the group to expand into Tujereng later this year, she believes the initiative will achieve “great success” and hopes the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, along with corporate partners, will rally behind it.
Her love for creation began in her youth with a passion for crocheting. Even as she built a stable career in insurance, she felt a persistent calling that something was missing. That calling grew stronger when she travelled to London in search of a designer, only to realise how difficult it was to find the right match.
Returning home, she trained under Bob Café in cuisine making in Fajara before meeting a multi‑talented South African artist who had formed the collective “Messengers of Messages (MOMS).” Faced with a difficult choice between her corporate career and her passion, she chose art. “In life, sometimes you need to sacrifice to get what you want,” she reflected.
Touring across Africa with MOMS, she discovered art’s deeper purpose: empowering underprivileged women, youth, and people with disabilities. Her travels culminated in Morocco, where she experienced a profound revelation: “Art is not just painting; it is a way of life.” This realisation cemented her commitment to pursue art as her true calling.
Now, as a proud member of the ART27 Artist Group, Princess Adjoba sees her lifelong dream coming alive in her homeland. “For many years, people did not truly see art in The Gambia. But today, I believe ART27 will inspire many to explore their hidden talents. Everything is possible — you just have to pursue, persevere, and think positively,” she said with conviction.
Her story is one of courage, sacrifice, and vision — a powerful reminder that art is far more than aesthetics. It is a vehicle for empowerment, identity, and hope for a brighter future.
