Artistic Elements In Ekpe Masquerade In Akanu Ohafia
The Ekpe masquerade in Akanu Ohafia, a traditional practice among the Igbo people of Nigeria, showcases a rich tapestry of artistic elements deeply ingrained in cultural heritage. From elaborate costumes adorned with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and symbolic motifs, to mesmerizing dance movements accompanied by rhythmic drumbeats and chants, the Ekpe masquerade embodies a profound expression of identity, spirituality, and community cohesion. The masks themselves, crafted meticulously by skilled artisans, often reflect ancestral spirits or mythical beings, each with its own significance and story. Through this age-old tradition, participants and spectators alike are immersed in a sensory experience that transcends the boundaries of time and space, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in cultural heritage while perpetuating the legacy for future generations.
This project report has been systematically organized to facilitate learning and build life skills, and varied activities are incorporated to make the process enjoyable. It also drew from published works of Art history, African culture and Art methodology, to educate and inform the public on the typical African culture that involves masquerade.
The researcher has also drawn the attention of upcoming researchers to the reawakening of the African art through realism. I hope that this text will be accessed and regarded as achieving my “ aims” at list, to some extent.
Title page:
Certification page:
Acknowledgement:
Abstract:
Table of c content:
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Intoduction
1.1 Background History of Ekpe Masquerade
1.2 Statement of problem
1.3 Aims and objective
1.4 Limitation of the project
CHAPTER TWO
2. 1 Literature Review
CHAPTER THREE
3.1 Project Execution
3.2 project Development
CHAPTER FOUR
4.1 Project Analysis
CHAPTER FIVE
5.1 Recommendation and Conclusion
5.2 ReferenceS
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND HISTORY OF EKPE
MASQUERADE IN OHAFIA
Ekpe masquerade is a popular masquerade among the Rivers, cross – river and Abia state of the federal republic of Nigeria.
According to the research made on the history of Ekpe masquerade it convincingly provide on specific date on when the Ekpe masquerade tradition started.
Hence the fact that Ekpe masquerade tradition has lasted for thousands of years still masks the topic a crucial one to be studied.
Several researcher conducted recently have proven originator or root of this tradition to be the Efik speaking people of cross river state, usually populated in the capital, calaba.
Nde Ohafia or Ohafia people Assimilated the Igba Ekpe (Ekpe festival) through their migration from Ndoni to Andoni as taught by the Ohafia folklore.
The research traced the origin of Ohafia propel as rebels of Owan, Benin Kingdom in the present Edo state of Nigeria. Their ancestors waged war against the authority they set off to settle in Ndoni. Ndoni is in Delta state while Andoni is in River state From Andoni the journey took through Mben, Isieke, Louur Ibeku, Bende, Ozu Abam and then to where we now call Ohafia.
The history has notified the Nde Ohafia to have assimilated the culture of Igba Ekpe from their host (Andoni).
For many years now, Nde Ohafia has retained the Igba Ekpe or Ekpe festival to mark their Age grade system in their various villages that make up the six autonomous communities are Ama
The village are specifed under their respective
Autonomous communities for a clear understanding
(1) Ama Ukwu Amangwu (capital)
(2) Ania
Abia
Akanu
Amankwu
Isingwu
Ndi Uduam Awoke
The capital is Abia. The name is acronym of the village.
3. EBEM OHA
4. ISIAMA
EBEM (Capital) Amaekpu
Ihenta Elu (the capital of Ohafial as well as
Ndi Amogu Ndi Anyia Orie (Extinct Ndi Okala the capitia of Isama Ndi Nku
Ndi Uduma Ukwu Nkwebi Obro, Okigwe
5. OHAOFIA OHON AKU
Amkue Okon Asaga Eziafor Ndi Ibe Ndi Orieke
The surrounding communities such as Arochukwu, Afikpo, Nkoro, Abirba, Item and Igbere have village with similar names.
The Age groups that celebrate the Igba Ekpe or Ekpe festival among the 25 village are under Listed.
1. Uke Abiriba
2. Uke Mekwaeme
3. Uke Oakome
4. Uke Amasiri
5. Uke Georfe
6. Uke Bianko
7. Uke Amogu
8. Uke Enyi
9. Uke ndenyi
10. Uke London
11. Uke Ozurumba
12. Uke Amekpu
13. Uke Damba
14. Uke
These are but few Age groups in Ohaofia communities.
Artistic Elements In Ekpe Masquerade:
The Ekpe masquerade, also known as the leopard masquerade, is a traditional masquerade celebrated among the Efik, Ibibio, and Annang ethnic groups of Nigeria. It is rich in artistic elements, which include:
Costumes: The masqueraders wear elaborate costumes made from various materials, such as animal skins, feathers, beads, and raffia. These costumes are often adorned with intricate patterns, symbols, and designs that hold cultural and spiritual significance.
Masks: The masqueraders wear masks that depict a leopard or other animals, symbolizing power and strength. These masks are intricately carved and painted, often using natural pigments and dyes. The designs on the masks vary, but they typically feature bold and geometric patterns.
Body painting: Masqueraders often adorn their bodies with intricate patterns and symbols using natural pigments. These patterns can represent various things, such as clan affiliations, spiritual beliefs, or social status. The body paintings are done using natural materials like clay, charcoal, and plant extracts.
Dance and movement: The Ekpe masquerade involves elaborate dances and movements performed by the masqueraders. These dances are highly stylized and usually incorporate rhythmic footwork, acrobatics, and gestures that mimic the movements of leopards or other animals. The dancers’ movements are fluid and controlled, displaying a high level of skill and artistry.
Music and drumming: The masquerade is accompanied by traditional music, which plays a significant role in the performance. Drummers provide the rhythmic beats that guide the dancers’ movements and create an energetic and vibrant atmosphere. Other traditional musical instruments, such as flutes and rattles, are also played during the masquerade.
Symbolism and storytelling: The artistic elements in the Ekpe masquerade often carry deep symbolism and tell stories related to the community’s history, myths, and cultural values. Through their costumes, masks, dances, and performances, the masqueraders communicate these stories and messages to the community, preserving and passing down cultural heritage.
Overall, the Ekpe masquerade is a celebration of artistic expression and cultural identity. It showcases the creativity, craftsmanship, and storytelling traditions of the Efik, Ibibio, and Annang people, embodying the beauty and richness of their cultural heritage