Afikpo Masquerade Forms as Resource for a Creative Painterly Expression

Student: kenechukwu martin Onuoha (Thesis, 2025)
Department of Fine and Applied Arts
Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State

Abstract

Abstract Afikpo, a town in Ebonyi State is historically known for its rich cultural heritage including traditional masquerades, festivals and art forms. This research was focused on exploring Afikpo masquerade forms as resource for a painterly expression. The painting was made on a 4ft by 5ft piece of Canvas by means of Impasto using oil paints. The painting reveals the masquerade forms of Afikpo such as Okpaa (which is known to appear at the demise of an elderly and as well from Octobeer to December), OteroUgu (known to restore tranquillity between conflicting communities), Iko Okochi (known to feature in the Iko festival) and Okumkpo (known for its entertaining performance). These masquerades were featured in a colourful background which symbolized energy, fertility/longevity, spiritualism and tradition. The work was preserved by linseed oil. This research contributes to understanding Afikpo masquerade forms and how incorporating these forms in creating a painterly expression preserves cultural heritage and sensitivity.

Keywords
afikpo masquerade cultural heritage painterly expression afikpo masquerayde art forms cultural influences on Modern art artistic creativity
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