Fìlà

 



The Fìlà is the star piece of a Yoruba gentleman's native outfit dating back several generations. They come in different shapes and forms and have seen many redesigns over the years.

Gobi, the most popular fila style and subject of this art piece, can be styled in different ways each with its own significance. Apart from the characteristic style and identity statement it makes, Gobi is popularly used to indicate the marital status of Yoruba men.

Before wedding rings became popular, Yoruba men indicated they were single by styling the Gobi to the right, and to the left to indicate they were married, especially at public gatherings. Many still practice this although significantly less than before.

Artist: Promise Abodunrin
Medium: Graphite and Charcoal on canvas
Size: 16x20 inches

2023

Comments

Post a Comment

MORE POSTS

Michael Jordan

Image
  One of the most iconic captures of the greatest to ever do it, poetry in motion. MJ needs no introduction! The man who made us all believe we could fly! Medium: Pastel on Bristol paper Size: 18 x 24 inches Commissioned (2023)
Read more

Ìyálóde

Image
  At some point in the history of  Yorubas, this was an outfit of wealth and splendor worn only by high-society women. It was a statement of elegance and class for a long time until recently. A lot of items are put together to make this outfit including: 1) gèlè (head gear)  2) yẹ̀tí (earrings usually gold)  3) Ìlẹ̀kẹ̀ (beads)  4) bùbá (loose top) 5) Ìró (wrapper) 6) Ọ̀já (fastener, used to hold the bùbá and Ìró in place like a belt) Everything is put together with the finest and most expensive fabrics only affordable for few. This outfit was commonly worn by the Ìyálóde, a high ranking chieftain in the Yoruba society. They are representatives of women in the king's council and are also influential politically and economically. This is a piece of Yoruba history that I wanted to cement with my art, this is a piece of African heritage that should not be forgotten. Thanks for stopping by! Title : Ìyálóde Artist : Promise Abodunrin Medium : Graphite a...
Read more

The Strength of Woman

Image
  She's strong and powerful, yet soft and tender. She oozes love and affection to all who cross her path. A wonderful mother raising kings and Queens in preparation for this world of uncertainty. She builds her career and home simultaneously, giving no room for deficiencies. This art piece was inspired by my mother and all other amazing women who strike that complex balance everyday, between building their career or business and taking care of the home. A special breed of women who "put food on the table" and clean it afterwards. It's something that I feel is not appreciated enough. Through all this she maintains her beauty and glows with pride. Oh woman! Pay attention to the little details because there's a lot of them. Artist:  Promise Abodunrin Title: The Strength of Woman Medium:  Graphite and Charcoal on paper Size:  20 by 16 inches
Read more