Ghanaian visual artist Ashenso has opened up about the journey behind a widely celebrated shout-out from American rap icon Rick Ross, revealing how a personal connection with Afro-Dancehall star Stonebwoy helped take his work onto the global stage.
Speaking on The Afternoon Show on TV3, Ashenso said the moment stemmed from years of working closely with Stonebwoy, whom he has both tattooed and painted since as far back as 2015. He recalled Stonebwoy once predicting that one of his paintings would “go far”, a comment that later proved prophetic.
Ashenso explained that while working on a tattoo at Stonebwoy’s home, the musician mentioned his collaboration with Rick Ross and Def Jam. He suggested creating a painting as a gesture of appreciation to the US rapper. Although Stonebwoy expected a standard-sized artwork, Ashenso surprised him with an oversized piece measuring approximately 200 by 250 centimetres.
The painting was later delivered to Rick Ross, who publicly praised Ashenso’s talent, a moment that resonated widely online.
The artist also revealed that Ross is not the only global figure to have received his work. He has previously painted hip-hop mogul Jay-Z in New York and presented a portrait to Dame Dash in London. Ashenso recounted creating the Dame Dash piece overnight ahead of a BBC appearance, highlighting the discipline and spontaneity that define his creative process.
He credited inspiration and commitment as the driving forces behind his ability to deliver under pressure, saying passion allows him to “make it happen” whenever opportunity arises.