Elinam Hair Do – Hand-Painted Ghana Shop Sign | African Barber Sign

Elinam Hair Do – Authentic Hand-Painted Ghana Hair Salon Sign

This one-of-a-kind hand-painted Ghana shop sign is a vintage artwork crafted by a local Ghanaian artist using oil paint on plywood. Showcasing the vibrant and iconic “Elinam Hair Do,” this Ghana barber sign features detailed portraiture and expressive style typical of African signboard culture. These unique signs were used to advertise hair salons and attract customers through visual storytelling.

• Size: 20" x 13 3/4" (51 cm x 35 cm)

Despite its age, this hand-painted sign remains a remarkable example of Ghanaian street art. Expect visible signs of use such as scratches, paint wear, cracks, and prior repairs, which only add to its authenticity and charm. The plywood is aged but solid, making it perfect for collectors, interior designers, or anyone who appreciates African folk art.

What Are Ghana Shop Signs?

Originating from the bustling streets of Accra and other Ghanaian cities, Ghana shop signs are colorful, expressive, and often humorous visual advertisements created to promote small local businesses. These include barber shops, telecom services, herbalist doctors, car repair ("car doctors"), and general food staff vendors.

Each sign is hand-painted—often freehand—by a talented local artist using oil paints on repurposed wood or plywood. These signs are not only business tools but also folk art, capturing the vibrancy and entrepreneurial spirit of West African urban culture. They serve as accessible and visual communication tools in a region where literacy rates vary, helping customers quickly recognize services offered.

The significance of hand-painted signs in Ghana goes beyond advertising. They foster visibility for small business owners, sustain a tradition of public art, and reflect the creativity of everyday life in Ghana. Collecting them supports the preservation of a disappearing art form and honors the cultural heritage of West African artisans.

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