A Sampler of Non-Western Arts and Culture
Artist: Charles Ijiomah, Ceremony, Nigeria, Africa, 2010 (http://www.africancolours.net/)
Ijiomah’s black and white photography is not only beautiful, he utilizes one of my very favorite mediums, as I discussed in many of my previous posts. I love that we are able to catch a glimpse of an African ceremony, and are given the chance to enjoy the insight it allows into another culture. I am not sure if this is a wedding ceremony, but the woman in the background, and her outfit, make me think of a modern day US bride. It is interesting that while completely different on a cultural level, there are similarities to Western life that one can relate to in this work. A really lovely shot, one I would enjoy having in my own home.
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July 25, 2010 at 8:29 pm
tknight8blog
I really enjoy African artwork as well – I just think that the cultural differences and similarities are beautiful and fascinating! This picture has a lot of character, and thus, a lot to say. I completely agree with what you have said about the woman in the white; moreover, I find it fascinating that she is wearing white (in a seemingly western-traditional get-up), while everyone surrounding her is wearing distinctly African ceremonial clothing. Do you know when this photo was taken, and whether it was staged or not? I had a hard time finding the crucial information on my blog this time, because there wasn’t much on them as they’re a rather newer band. Anyways, great job on the post, I find this to be a very beautiful photograph!
July 26, 2010 at 9:16 pm
Nnamdi charles Ijiomah
Many thanks for your comment I do really appreciate; this photo is part of a series ‘Black Heritage’.It was taken during the 3rd Lagos Black Heritage Festival. April,2010.
Regards,
Charles
July 26, 2010 at 1:25 am
gloverc3
Wow, this is a really interesting photo! It has elements of tradition, mystique, anticipation, and celebration. It definitely seems like some kind of ceremony, as I guess the name would suggest! I do wonder if it is a wedding, but there are so many people so traditionally dressed, that I think it might be something else. It doesn’t look like a staged photo to me, which is part of the reason I like it. I almost wish the photo weren’t in black and white, because then the colors of the beads, etc. would be revealed, and I’ll bet they are quite colorful. I also wonder what the face paint was made out of, and what colors they offered? However, there is a lot of great detail that is made more simple by the use of black and white, so the picture isn’t overwhelming. Overall, I think this is a really neat photo, I just wish I had more information about what was going on!
January 10, 2011 at 6:33 pm
nnamdi charles Ijiomah
The Gelede is performed as a tribute to the premodial mother. It futher shows the important role of women in the organizing and developing the Yoruba society. It is charactrised by carved masks.The gelede pays tribute to the female mystical power of ancestors.The ceremony is usually celebrated at night after harvest.
July 27, 2010 at 3:40 am
christopher.d
This is a very lively photo for being a flat image with no color! This would have been so impresive to be a part of. The way you described the similarities is right on. I was thinking the same thing when I saw it. Did you know what type of ceremony it was supposed to be? Did Ijiomah typically photograph in this style of B&W? Great Job!!