Grand Bassam is experiencing a cultural revival as artists move from the capital, Abidjan, to the historic coastal city in search of affordable studios and creative inspiration. Once Côte d’Ivoire’s colonial capital, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is attracting painters, photographers, and other creatives with its tranquil beaches, colonial architecture, and slower pace of life. The resurgence has been supported by new cultural institutions, including La Maison de l’Art, a restored contemporary art museum, and artist residency programs hosted by venues such as La Fourchette de Rōze and La Cocoteraie des Arts. While Abidjan remains the country’s commercial art center with most galleries, collectors, and major events, Grand Bassam is carving out a complementary role. Artists say its peaceful atmosphere allows them to create while remaining close enough to participate in Côte d’Ivoire’s thriving cultural scene.
The Guardian