1/1 artwork by Yomi.
(Digital illustration on digital canvas)

“Oníbàtá” is a Yoruba word which means “Bàtà drum player”.

The Bàtá drum is a double-headed drum shaped like an hourglass with one end larger than the other. The drum dates back roughly 500 years and is believed to have been introduced by a Yoruba King.
These types of drums have been used in the religion known as Santería in Cuba since the 1800s, and in Puerto Rico and the United States since the 1950s. In addition, the early function of the bàtá was as a drum of different gods, royalty, ancestors, and a drum of politicians.

The drums and cultures are passed from one generation to another to preserve the traditions and teach the young ones about the ways of life of their forefathers.

Lastly, this culture connects people to their roots and gives the Yorubas a unique identity.

PS: The silhouettes represent black beauty & power, while the attires (Aso Òkè) signify the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria.