Friday, May 22, 2009

IGBO KWENU!!!, 24" x 15", Mixed Media on Canvas Board, 2008

This is the second piece I discovered and it celebrates The Igbo child in Finland. I saw a video that inspired this piece. It shows how children who are of Igbo descent in Nigeria are taught to speak their mother tongue even though they are born in a foreign land. I was thrilled because I also speak Yoruba, my mother tongue to Josh and it really helps him to have a sense of belonging.



This was done mainly in acrylic, coloured pencil and black markers on canvas stuck to masonite board.

10 comments:

Edward Burton said...

Very beautiful, Adebanji.

adebanji said...

Thanks Edward!

dominique eichi said...

wow, what a beautiful piece. So expressive. If I might ask what is she doing ? and some of the words on the left what do they mean ?

adebanji said...

Thanks Dominique, it is a boy and he is hailing his fellow Igbo colleagues. It is something the Ibo people do, especially elders when they meet each other. It is an expressive way of greeting in Ibo culture.

The words are all motivational and encouraging words. Words that empower the Igbo child and give them a sense of belonging.

annie said...

This is beautifully full of the child's world, his friends and his language. What a joyful moment. How good that you and your child can share your own language.
annie

adebanji said...

Thanks Annie!

Unknown said...

I enjoyed watching the video and your beautiful painting really captures the children's enthusiasm and pride. I am impressed Finland has a policy that requires each child learn their native tongue to make them well rounded. wow.

adebanji said...

Yes Sheila! I felt the same way!

Nnamdi said...

Please let me know if there is any way I can buy this piece!

adebanji said...

Thanks Nnamdi, just email me.