Explore the profound mystique and formidable spirit embodied by the African woman - tale of resilience, wisdom, and spiritual potency. From the tender grip of a mother safeguarding her child with a tapestry of vibrant beads, to the serene yet commanding presence of a queen surrounded by the silent watch of ancestral masks.
“I hope my art lights a spark that makes people eager to know more about Nigerian spirituality and culture. There is a lot yet to be uncovered, numerous stories out there to be told, and I believe my art is a guide that will help them in their discoveries.”
wetin be juju? (what is juju)
Juju na kind of spiritual belief or practice wey come from West African traditions. E involve the use of charms, spells, or amulets to protect, heal, or cause harm. Juju dey deeply rooted for the culture and spirituality of the people, and e show the power wey ancestors and spirits get for their lives. E also reflect how these traditions and beliefs don carry go from generation to generation, still hold strong meaning for people today.
English Translation: Juju, deeply rooted in West African spirituality, represents a complex system of belief and practice that intertwines the natural and supernatural worlds. Historically, it embodies the essence of communication with ancestral spirits and deities, harnessing their powers for protection, healing, and guidance. This tradition, rich in rituals and symbolic artifacts, has been preserved and transformed through generations, adapting to contemporary life while retaining its core values and practices.
“My grandmother worked very hard to support her family . She was a trader and farmer, I remember follower her to the farm as a child and can recall the joy in her eyes while she worked. This was something she loved to do. Even with her children becoming successful and making sure she reaped the fruits of her labour, she still loved to go to her farm.”
di sacred power of women (the sacred power of women)
For West African spiritual traditions, women dey play key role. Dem dey carry power, wisdom, and lead for spiritual matters. Women na the keepers of culture and spiritual know-how, dem dey act as healers, diviners, and middle people between the physical and spiritual world. Their strong link with the spiritual realm dey celebrated and respected, showing say dem dey crucial for keep and pass down these old practices. Through their guide, women dey make sure say the sacred knowledge and traditions dey move from one generation go another, making the community spiritual ground strong.
English Translation: Women hold a pivotal role in West African spiritual traditions, embodying strength, wisdom, and spiritual leadership. They are often seen as the custodians of cultural and spiritual knowledge, playing crucial roles as healers, diviners, and spiritual mediators. Their deep connection with the spiritual world is celebrated and respected, highlighting their integral part in the continuity and preservation of these ancient practices. Through their leadership, women ensure the transmission of sacred knowledge and traditions across generations, reinforcing the community's spiritual foundation.
“This exhibition immerses you in the essence of a power that is both nurturing and fierce, ancient and ever-present. It's a celebration of the ethereal bond between the African woman and the timeless juju that she embodies.”
"Itan" translates to "story" or "history" in Yoruba. Yoruba people are one of the largest and most culturally significant ethnic groups in West Africa. Yoruba culture is known for its vibrant and expressive arts, including sculpture, textiles, music, dance, and storytelling. Yoruba art has a strong emphasis on symbolism and spirituality and has influenced the broader African art world. Itan Foundation World isn’t just about displaying art, but also about telling the stories and histories of West African artists, their cultures and their creative journeys. Each artwork is selected for its ability to evoke a sense of storytelling and exploration.