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Ghanaian artist Joseph Awuah-Darko accuses Kehinde Wiley of sexual assault, Wiley denies allegations
British-born, Ghanaian artist Joseph Awuah-Darko accused renowned American- Nigerian painter, Kehinde Wiley of sexual assault in an Instagram post, stating the incident occurred on June 9, 2021, during a dinner held in Wiley’s honor by Ghana’s Creative Art Council at the Noldor Artist Residency.
Awuah-Darko detailed that Wiley groped him and committed a more severe assault later that night, which he struggled to confront due to Wiley’s status and anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiment in Ghana. Seeking legal action, Awuah-Darko hopes his openness will empower other victims.
Wiley, denying the allegations, called the claims false and deeply hurtful, asserting their relationship was consensual and citing Awuah-Darko’s continued attempts to stay connected.
In response to Wiley’s denial, Awuah-Darko acknowledged their previously cordial relationship, explaining that he only recently accepted the reality of the assault after extensive therapy. He stressed that familiarity between victims and their abusers is common, urging a reevaluation of misconceptions about sexual predators.
Both artists have expressed their intent to pursue legal avenues to resolve the matter.
