Location: Deconstructed Wetlands

A large, basket-like head is constructed from locally foraged fallen twigs, branches, and tree bark. Drawing from the artist’s Yoruba heritage within a diasporic context, the form is inspired by West African Gẹ̀lẹ̀dẹ́ masks. The basket shape evokes the containment and protection of life and community, while its calm, relaxed face embodies harmony and balance. 

These references connect to Yoruba-Nago Gẹ̀lẹ̀dẹ́ masquerade spectacles, which evolved from fertility rituals and are performed in anticipation of a good harvest, traditionally fostering social accord within communities. They honor women, especially elder women, who are regarded as powerful, as well as the feminine principle of the earth, the primordial mother known as Iya Nla. 

A dove rests atop the head, which serves as the site of one’s ori, a personal connection to the infinite cosmic life force and a holder of intuition in Yoruba cosmology. Birds signify àṣẹ, or divine power, through their ability to fly. Doves, more specifically, represent calm and good fortune. Color accents contrast with the natural wood, reflecting the vibrancy of the natural world. Vivid, earthy, and cool tones of reddish-brown and blue evoke tranquility and wisdom. 

This work is a tribute to social and ecological resilience, the upliftment of feminine power, and enduring hopes for stability and ease.