Using Op Art to Depict Bakassi Conflict
Student: Bassey Augustine Essien (Project, 2025)
Department of Fine and Applied Arts
University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study explores the use of Op Art (Optical Art) as a visual medium to represent and interpret the Bakassi Conflict, a territorial dispute between Nigeria and Cameroon. By integrating the visual language of optical illusion, geometric patterns, and contrasting colors, the artwork aims to express the tension, disorientation, and emotional complexity surrounding the conflict. Op Art’s dynamic visual effects serve as metaphors for instability, uncertainty, and shifting perspectives that characterized the political and human dimensions of the Bakassi issue. Through this artistic approach, the study seeks to bridge the gap between political history and visual expression, transforming a socio-political narrative into an immersive sensory experience that provokes reflection, dialogue, and emotional engagement from viewers. The project demonstrates how modern visual styles like Op Art can transcend aesthetics to communicate conflict, displacement, and resolution in compelling, non-verbal ways.
Keywords
For the full publication, please contact the author directly at: austinessienbassey@gmail.com
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Institutions
- Binyaminu Usman Polytechnic, Hadijia, Jigawa State 3
- Borno State University, Maiduguri, Borno State 15
- Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State 1
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli, Anambra State 254
- College of Agriculture and Animal Science, Mando Road, Kaduna, Kaduna State 1
- College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Lafia, Nasarawa State 8
- College of Education, Akwanga (affl To Ahmadu Bello Univ, Zaria) 1
- College of Education, Eha Amufu, (Affliliated To Unn), Enugu State 1
- College of Education, Warri (Affiliated To Delta State Uni, Abraka), Delta State 1
- College of Health Technology, Calabar, Cross River State 1