MONROVIA — Former Commerce and Industry Minister Amin Modad has unveiled an ambitious initiative to establish Liberia’s first-ever Public Center for the Arts, calling on citizens, partners, and the international community to support what he describes as a “transformative national project.”
In a public appeal shared widely on social platforms, Modad—also a former chairman of the ruling Unity Party—outlined a vision for a multi-purpose arts complex aimed at nurturing creativity, empowering youth, and preserving Liberia’s cultural identity.
A Personal Journey Driving a National Vision
Drawing from his own experiences, Modad recounted his early struggles as an artist in the United States, where he survived by painting and sculpting on the streets of cities such as New York and Las Vegas.
“As an artist who once survived on the streets… I understand what it means to be a ‘starving artist’ searching for a breakthrough,” he said, framing the initiative as both personal and national in significance.
He argued that Liberia’s lack of a dedicated public arts institution has left many young people without safe and productive outlets for their talents.
Filling a Longstanding Cultural Gap
Despite Liberia’s rich history as Africa’s first independent republic, founded in 1822 and gaining independence in 1847, Modad noted that the country still lacks a national gallery or a fully developed public performing arts center.
He warned that this gap has contributed to a situation in which many talented young Liberians are left without structured opportunities, increasing their vulnerability to social and economic challenges.
“This is about far more than constructing a building,” Modad emphasized. “It is about creating opportunity—giving our youth a place to discover purpose and contribute to national development.”
Vision for the Arts Center
According to the proposal, the Public Center for the Arts would include:
- A national art gallery showcasing Liberian heritage and contemporary works;
- Exhibition spaces for both local and international artists;
- A performing arts theater for music, dance, and drama;
- Open, accessible facilities designed to serve the broader public.
The initiative aims to position the arts as a driver of social cohesion, economic opportunity, and national renewal.
A Non-Political Appeal
Modad stressed that the project is non-political and should be viewed as a long-overdue component of Liberia’s post-war reconstruction and development agenda.
He noted that after years of civil conflict, investments in cultural infrastructure should have been prioritized alongside physical reconstruction efforts.
“This is a vision long overdue,” he said, urging collective responsibility in shaping the country’s future.
Call for Partnership and Accountability
The former minister pledged full transparency and accountability in the execution of the project, inviting individuals, institutions, and development partners to contribute to its realization.
He also encouraged direct engagement from stakeholders interested in supporting the initiative, signaling a collaborative approach to funding and implementation.
Broader Implications
Observers say the proposal, if realized, could mark a significant shift in Liberia’s cultural and creative economy—an often underdeveloped sector with potential to generate employment, promote tourism, and strengthen national identity.
For now, Modad’s call sets the stage for what could become one of Liberia’s most ambitious cultural infrastructure projects in recent history.
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