Acrylic on canvas.
31.20x47.20"
IYOBA She is Queen.
This art piece is from the Royalty collection.
Iyoba is from the Edo kingdom in southern Nigeria - Western Africa. The Edo people make up one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria and have a rich cultural heritage. The Edo Kingdom, also known as the Benin Kingdom, is located in present-day Edo State, Nigeria.
The position of the queen (known as the Iyoba in the Edo language) is incredibly important in Edo society. The queen is often considered the mother of the people and has ceremonial and administrative duties within the kingdom. She plays a significant role in the religious and political life of the Edo people.
One of the most famous Edo queens is Queen Idia, who lived during the 16th century. She was the mother of the Oba (king) Esigie and played a crucial role in his ascension to the throne. Queen Idia was known for her military and strategic skills and is often depicted wearing a unique headdress in Edo artwork.
Today, the Edo Nigerian queen continues to hold a position of prestige and influence within the Edo Kingdom. They participate in various cultural festivals, ceremonies, and events, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Edo people.
Taiwo is a self-taught multidisciplinary artist based in Ottawa Canada. She is recognized for her portraits of Black women where she explores themes of culture, identity and representation. Her inspirations stem from her deep-rooted African heritage and its unique fashion elements. She grew up inspired by the African woman’s strength, beauty, richness of her brown skin and above all, the grace to look elegant and unscathed in midst of chaos; "this I want to share with the world".
Taiwo has exhibited her works at the Ottawa Art Gallery, The Black Visual Arts Exhibition (The Black London Project). She has collaborated with the London Arts Council on the London Arts Live project to entertain, educate and create cultural awareness through live art performances within the city of London, Ontario-Canada.
She was selected as a featured artist two years in a row - 2021 & 2022 at the UpWithArt / Unity Project annual fundraiser, where her artworks were auctioned and the proceeds directed towards the relief of homelessness in London, Ontario.
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
The intention of the art that I create is to edify the Black woman; showcase her strength, beauty, and ability to remain elegant and unscathed in the face of challenges.
I also use art as a medium to document Yoruba history for my daughters, because in knowing their history- they can fall in love with themselves and grow up to be confident Black women.
I hope my art makes space, holds space and validates my girls, black girls and black women.
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