ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE

Throughout the trip, artists will have the opportunity to engage in deep discussions about art, identity, and heritage and immerse themselves in the creative energy of the community. These encounters are designed to inspire new perspectives and ignite artistic expression.

Visual/performing artists, musicians, photographers, and videographers are invited to capture the essence of the season. The emphasis is on creating a collective narrative that transcends borders.

This unique program is designed to immerse participants in the rich artistic and cultural landscape of Ghana, fostering connections, creativity, and mutual learning.

 Cost of this Program: $3900pp (Payment plans available)
More details below in FAQs.

"I'm a Ghanaian Artist, How Can I Get Involved?"

As a Ghanaian artist, you can get involved by applying to join our exchange cohort through the link below. Additionally, you can help spread the word among fellow artists, attend our events in Ghana, and engage with the community of collaborating international artists. Your participation is invaluable to us, and we look forward to welcoming you into our vibrant creative community.

Why Offer an Artist Exchange in Ghana?

Your December Canvas Experience

Your trip includes:

• 12 Days / 11 Nights Accommodations
• Welcome and farewell receptions with other artists
• 3-city travel (Accra, Cape Coast and Kumasi)
• Daily breakfast, most lunches and dinners
• In-Country Ground Transportation
• Cultural activities and excursions 
  (Including historical sites, Cape Coast Castle, Assin Manso - Last Bath, etc.)
• Artist Networking Sessions
• Rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation
• Cape Coast Castle / Door of No Return
• Kakum National Park (Optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

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What's the cost of this trip?
The cost for this 12-day retreat starts at $3900. A $500 deposit is required to reserve your space. After reserving your spot you'll pay your remaining balance in monthly increments throughout secure payment platform. (Balance must be paid at least 60 days before the trip).

Why is the retreat $3,900, and why is the flight not included?
The $3,900 cost reflects the comprehensive, high-quality experience we’ve curated for you. This includes accommodations, meals, guided tours, cultural activities, local transportation, and expert facilitation throughout the 12-day retreat. 

Flights are not included because participants may be traveling from various locations with different flight preferences. This allows you the flexibility to choose the best flight options that suit your needs and budget. Additionally, it provides the opportunity to use frequent flyer miles or preferred airlines.

Why Do I Need to Pay?
Organizing an international artist exchange involves significant expenses, including venue rentals, transportation, accommodation, meals, and logistical support. By asking participants to cover their own costs, it helps offset some of these expenses and ensures the program remains financially viable.
Ultimately, while self-funding may require a financial commitment from participants, it enables the program to operate effectively.

Why isn't there external funding available?
We hope to offer scholarships in the future to help offset costs for artists. However, depending solely on external funding sources can be unpredictable and may not be sustainable for us in the long term. We hope to at least offer a hybrid funding model in the future.

When and Where is the trip?
December 29, 2025 - January 9 2026 in Ghana. We will spend the first part of the trip in the capital city of Accra before heading to Cape Coast and Kumasi. We will be staying in Accra, Cape Coast, and Kumasi.

Can I arrive before the retreat or stay longer?
Yes. Please inform us if you would like to extend your trip or arrive early. Our travel coordinator is equipped to handle your solo traveler needs outside of the retreat experience.
Is there anything not included in the trip enrollment?
Flight and Visa fees. Please note, you will be flying into Kotoka International airport in Accra. We will need to know your arrival time to arrange for your ground transportation.

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Where will we be staying during the retreat?
We will be staying at full service accommodations in Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast. All accommodations are equipped with running water, electricity, and other basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

Can I book a private room?
Private rooms are $4500.

Is there a lot of walking or physical activity involved? 
The retreat involves a reasonable amount of walking and physical activity, primarily during our visits to historical sites and cultural landmarks. However, it’s not overly strenuous. Our staff will be on hand throughout the trip, so if you ever feel the need to rest or sit out any activities, we’ll accommodate you accordingly to ensure your comfort.

What kind of support will be available during the trip?
Our retreat facilitators and local guides will be available throughout the trip to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience. We’ll also have emergency contacts on hand should any issues arise.

Is there anything not included in the trip enrollment?
Flight, visa fees, health insurance, travel insurance, gratuities, personal items and gifts, alcoholic beverages during meals, and additional excursions. Please note, you will be flying into Kotoka International airport in Accra. We will need to know your arrival time to arrange for your ground transportation.
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How many participants will be on this retreat?
This retreat is limited to a small, intimate group to ensure a personalized and meaningful experience. We anticipate a group size of around 10-12 participants.

What happens if the trip is canceled due to unforeseen events?
If some out-of-the-ordinary disaster happens (ie. global pandemic travel restrictions) and the trip can no longer take place at its scheduled date, we will simply reschedule the retreat for a later time.
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When do I have to sign up by?
The sooner, the better, as there are only 12 spots available for this trip.
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Refund & Cancellation Policy
Direct Your Purpose reserves the right to cancel any trip for any unusual or unforeseen circumstances outside of Direct Your Purpose’s control. In order to protect yourself, purchase travel insurance prior to your trip.

Cancellation by Participant:
All payments received before June 1st (with the exception of the $500 Deposit) are 100% refundable.

Payments made between June 1st and July 31st are 100% refundable
(This does not include deposit or initial payments made before June 1st)

After Aug 1:

• 50% refundable before Oct 31st (does not include deposit or payments made before Aug 1)
• 25% refundable before Nov 30th (does not include deposit or payments made before Aug 1)
• 0% refundable after Dec 1st  

No refunds will be provided for cancellations or no-shows.

DYP cannot refund or transfer any deposits for our retreats. Please note that there will be no refunds or discounts for arriving late, leaving early, flight cancellations, travel delays or illness. While unforeseen circumstances can take place (injury, family emergency, etc), costs are already incurred when reserving retreat centers and excursions. In order to protect yourself, purchase travel insurance prior to your trip.

Cancellation by Direct Your Purpose:

DYP may cancel the trip at any time prior to departure due to natural disasters, terrorism, political instability, COVID-19, or other external events that make it no longer viable to operate the planned retreat.

If your trip is canceled, we will notify you immediately and provide instructions for the next steps. In circumstances where the cancellation is due to external events outside our reasonable control, credits will be less any unrecoverable costs. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking, including but not limited to vaccinations, travel insurance, or non-refundable flights.

Got Questions? 
Email  [email protected]