We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Prince Kojo-Hilton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Prince , thanks for joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I’m definitely happier as a creative. Being an artist is not just something I do—it’s who I am. But yes, there are moments when I wonder what life would be like if I had taken a more conventional path. One moment stands out vividly.

I was working as a Scenic Artist on the Hollywood sci-fi series Sense8, and I had been tasked with painting an image of Jean-Claude Van Damme on the side of a van that was being used as a prop. It sounds glamorous—and it was exciting—but behind the scenes, it was grueling. I was under pressure, with time ticking, heat blazing, and a team relying on me to make that artwork pop on camera.

At one point, I paused, paintbrush in hand, arms aching, sweat dripping, and I thought: What would it feel like to just clock in at 9, sit behind a desk, and not carry the weight of creating something that the whole world might see? That thought lingered for maybe a minute.

But then, I stepped back and looked at the van. The likeness of Van Damme was bold, powerful, cinematic. I imagined how that van would move across the screen, my artwork becoming part of a story seen by millions. That’s when I remembered why I chose this path. My art moves. It speaks. It becomes part of something greater than myself.

In that moment, I concluded that structure might bring comfort, but creation brings legacy. The only thing I am a slave to is my passion—and that’s the kind of freedom I never want to give up.

Prince , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Prince Kojo-Hilton — a multi-disciplinary artist, production designer, filmmaker, and visual storyteller with a passion for transforming spaces, stories, and minds. I like to say, “The only thing that I am a slave to is my passion.” That passion has led me on an incredible journey through the worlds of film, theatre, visual arts, and large-scale installations. My work is grounded in creativity, craftsmanship, and purpose.

My artistic journey began on the stages of the National Theatre of Ghana, where I immersed myself in stagecraft and set design. From those humble beginnings, I went on to work in film, collaborating on local and international productions — including a sci-fi movie shot in Nairobi with a Hollywood team. These experiences sharpened my understanding of professionalism and global standards in production and design.

Through my brand, Hilwood Studio, I provide services in production design, scenic art, murals, film treatments, exhibition curation, and creative direction. I also mentor young artists, run workshops, and organize events like the Film Craft Expo — an annual platform that explores the art, science, and business of cinematic storytelling.

What sets my work apart is my ability to merge African cultural identity with world-class artistic practices, creating immersive experiences that resonate emotionally and intellectually. I don’t just design for aesthetics — I design for impact, meaning, and legacy. I’ve created murals at iconic places like the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and have donated monumental portraits to royalty, all while continuing to build platforms for the next generation.

I’m proudest when I see my students and mentees thrive — from winning awards to traveling abroad for further studies in art. I’m a firm believer in using art as a tool for transformation, healing, and empowerment.

For anyone discovering me or my brand for the first time, know this: every piece of work I touch is driven by purpose. Whether it’s a mural, a film set, a public talk, or an international collaboration — I bring the same passion, storytelling, and Pan-African vision. I want the world to see that creativity from Africa isn’t just alive — it’s powerful, futuristic, and ready to shape global narratives.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, my creative journey is deeply rooted in a mission: to build a legacy that inspires, empowers, and elevates the creative industry in Africa to global standards. I’m driven by the desire to bridge the gap between raw talent and professional excellence, and to create platforms where African stories, aesthetics, and voices can thrive unapologetically on the world stage.

At the core of everything I do is a vision to nurture the next generation of creatives — giving them the tools, exposure, and confidence to dream beyond borders. Through my work in film, theatre, mural painting, and production design, I aim to spark imagination and open doors. That’s why I created the Film Craft Expo — not just as an event, but as a movement to showcase the art, science, and business behind storytelling, and to connect African creatives to global opportunities.

Ultimately, I’m not just creating art — I’m creating impact. I want every project I touch to speak of passion, purpose, and possibility.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the profound sense of connection and self-expression that comes from translating inner visions into tangible works. This creative journey encompasses several interconnected rewards:

1. Authentic Self-Expression:
One of the most fulfilling elements is the ability to articulate thoughts, feelings, and perspectives that might otherwise remain unspoken. Creating art allows for a unique form of communication—whether through painting, music, writing, or any other medium—that resonates deeply not just with oneself but with others who experience it.

2. Emotional and Intellectual Exploration:
The creative process is often a journey of self-discovery. It challenges you to explore complex emotions, abstract ideas, and untapped parts of your identity. This introspection can lead to personal growth, as you learn to navigate and express the intricate landscapes of human experience.

3. Connecting with Others:
Art has a remarkable way of bridging gaps between disparate experiences and cultures. Knowing that your creation can touch someone, evoke memories, or even catalyze social change is incredibly rewarding. This shared understanding and connection—even across language and cultural barriers—is one of art’s most powerful gifts.

4. Innovative Problem-Solving:
The creative process is inherently experimental. Every project is an opportunity to solve unique problems, think divergently, and develop innovative ideas. This continuous challenge keeps the mind engaged and fosters a resilient, adaptive way of thinking that can be applied in many areas of life.

5. Leaving a Lasting Impact:
There is a special kind of satisfaction in knowing that your creative works might outlive you, touching and inspiring future generations. The possibility of leaving behind an enduring legacy or contributing to larger societal narratives creates a lasting sense of purpose.

6. Therapeutic Value:
For many artists, the act of creation is as much about healing as it is about expression. The process can serve as a form of catharsis, helping to process emotional turmoil, celebrate joyous moments, or simply achieve mental clarity. This therapeutic element not only enhances personal well-being but also serves as a source of strength during challenging times.

In essence, the rewards of being an artist lie in the blend of personal fulfillment, continuous learning, and the ability to forge meaningful connections—both with oneself and with the broader community. This multifaceted journey not only enriches the creative individual but also contributes to the collective human experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ambprincekojohilton.art/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kojohilton?igsh=MXZib3JxbnpmcWkzaA==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AHPGSLsNk/?mibextid=qi2Omg
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/princekojohilton?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@princekojohilton