Mahama is known for his largescale installations, sculptures and architectural interventions that explore global trade, commodification, labour, economic inequality, migration, and the socio-political legacies of colonialism in Africa. Mahama transforms everyday materials, such as jute sacks used in commodity exchange and abandoned infrastructure, into works that engage with collective memory and historical narratives. Mahama is the founder of the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art (SCCA), Red Clay Studio, and Nkrumah Voli-ni in Tamale, which serve as platforms for exhibitions, research, and community based learning. In 2025, he became the first person from Africa to top ArtReview’s Power 100, honoured both for his artistic practice and for creating infrastructures that support other artists in realising their visions