Art is the expression of ideas, emotions and imagination through a physical medium.
It can be used as a way to let loose, a way to relax and even a sense of livelihood, art is one and all of those things.
In Nigeria though, the difference is, Art isn't just a sense of livelihood nor a way to relax. Art is a way of life ✨
Art In Nigeria
Art is something that is deeply embedded in Nigerian culture.
In the clothes we wear, the tools we use, the songs we sing, everything is simply rich with art.
Nigerian art has quite a rich and old history dating back to 2000 BC during the time of the Nok Sculptures. Since then, the art sector has blown up, it's popularity and cultural significance leaving both the realms of painting and sculpture, but also to other forms of art, including the music and literature forms...
Contemporary, Realism, Impressionalism, Abstract, you name it. The art forms in this country flys unhindered by the failing government and the nearly shattered economy.
The leading sector at the moment is the Edo-Benin Sector, whose rise to fame in the art style began with the peak of the Benin Empire in the 16th Century.
The Oba of that time, Esigie, came to power when Portuguese people first made contact with the empire to trade Ivory and other goods.
Esigie engaged in two major conflicts during his reign. The first being his half brother who staged a civil war for the succession of the throne and the second was the invasion of the neighboring Northern Igala Kingdom and captured their leader.
Esigie rewarded his key political and musical advisor during these battles, his mother Ibia, giving her the title, "Iyoba"-meaning Queen Mother. She was the first of many Queen Mother Traditional advisors.
As such, her likeness was carved as a form of art, arguably one of the most notable Nigerian art forms known and the now symbol of Benin City.
The role of art in the Nigerian Economy is not something that can be overlooked.
Like I mentioned earlier it's a way of life, it's our culture.
It goes hand in hand with our very being and just like every Nigerian's explosive nature... Our art is a blast 💥
This is my entry for the day one of @leo.tasks #marchinleo initiative.
To read more about the monthly prompts, read here.
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