Skip to main content
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 9

Oluwafemi Afolabi
Mystery of Freedom

2022

$3,200
£2,395.03
€2,773.29
CA$4,447.48
A$5,009.36
CHF 2,594.17
MX$60,836.72
NOK 32,951.94
SEK 31,257.70
DKK 20,692.58
Shipping
Retrieving quote...
The 1stDibs Promise:
Authenticity Guarantee,
Money-Back Guarantee,
24-Hour Cancellation

About the Item

The Yoruba people, who primarily inhabit southwestern Nigeria, boast a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries. Their traditions and customs are marked by a vibrant visual language, music, dance, and elaborate attire. The Iro and Buba, worn by both men and women, is a traditional Yoruba ensemble consisting of a wrapper (iro) and a blouse (buba). These garments are meticulously crafted from vibrant fabrics, often adorned with intricate patterns and motifs, reflecting the rich tapestry of Yoruba culture. At the center of "Mystery of Freedom" is a woman captured mid-dance, frozen in a moment of pure elegance and grace. Her fluid movements seem to transcend the constraints of time and space, immersing viewers in a sense of wonder. The artist's attention to detail is evident in the way the fabric of her attire gracefully flows around her, accentuating her every movement. The artwork exudes a sense of mystery, inviting viewers to delve into its deeper meaning. The woman's dance symbolizes freedom, as her every step embodies liberation from societal norms and expectations. The Iro and Buba, with its vibrant colors and patterns, represent the preservation of tradition and cultural identity. The artwork encapsulates the harmonious coexistence of the past and present, showcasing the enduring beauty and significance of Yoruba culture. Moreover, the artwork encourages contemplation of the broader concept of freedom. It challenges viewers to reflect on their own lives and the societal constraints that may hinder personal expression and individuality. Through the woman's captivating dance, Afolabi prompts us to question the boundaries we impose upon ourselves and the limitless possibilities that lie beyond. Oluwafemi Afolabi's artistic prowess shines through in "Mystery of Freedom." His meticulous attention to detail and masterful brushstrokes bring the artwork to life. Afolabi's skillful use of color creates a visually striking composition, with the vibrant hues of the Iro and Buba contrasting against the darker background, drawing the viewer's gaze to the central figure. The artist's choice to portray the woman in mid-dance captures a fleeting moment, freezing it in time for eternal appreciation. The juxtaposition of movement and stillness adds depth to the artwork, creating a sense of tension and intrigue. "Mystery of Freedom" by Oluwafemi Afolabi is an exquisite artwork that showcases the beauty of Yoruba culture and provokes contemplation on the concept of freedom. Through the captivating dance of a woman adorned in traditional Yoruba attire, the artist captures the essence of liberation and the preservation of cultural identity. Afolabi's skillful technique and attention to detail make this artwork a visual feast for the eyes, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its enigmatic beauty. As we gaze upon "Mystery of Freedom," we are reminded of the power of art to transcend boundaries, evoke emotions, and provoke introspection. It serves as a testament to the enduring value of cultural heritage and the limitless possibilities that await when we embrace the mysteries of freedom. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube from Nigeria This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.
  • Creator:
    Oluwafemi Afolabi (1992, Nigerian)
  • Creation Year:
    2022
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 48 in (121.92 cm)Width: 48 in (121.92 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Ibadan, NG
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1717213786512

More From This Seller

View All
You May Be Lucky
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Love, with its intense emotions and vulnerabilities, has long been a subject of exploration in art. The artwork titled "You May Be Lucky," created by the talented artist Oluwafemi Afolabi...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Fortitude
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube. This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. A difficult time can be more...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

My Culture, My Inheritance
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Appearance defines what you are made of, being black, made of dressing, our way of approaching, respect, and how we react to things are what we inherit from our four fathers and we are happy and proud of who we are. Black is beautiful, I love black. Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube from Nigeria This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Issue by The Galley) About Artist Ajenifuja Abiodun...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Inner Nature 3 - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Women on African Fabric
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
“Listen to your inner nature… for it is a deep and powerful source of wisdom, beauty and truth, ever flowing through you… Learn to trust it, trust your intuition, and in good time, a...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Omidan 6
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
The rhythmic beads on her waist miming to the soft music of the two bilabial mountains flouncing in majesty on her back. I see her and I trance. The curvaceous smile on her face quie...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Omidan
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Omidan a yoruba name for a young woman or damsel. Omidan a lady with virtues My gaze fixated on the first Her face was dazzling, but not a mirage. Her hair mesmerizes my eyes The p...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

You May Also Like

Stories Within - Contemporary African Portrait Painting Culrure Identity
Located in Ibadan, NG
What Makes This Piece Unique or Special: Stories Within is a striking contemporary portrait that blends bold aesthetics with introspective storytelling. What makes this painting particularly special is its ability to capture a deeply personal yet universally relatable emotion the quiet power of shared human experiences that often remain unspoken. Bukola Orioye...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Figurative Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic, Oil, Linen

UNTOLD STORY ii
Located in Culver City, CA
The interpretation and expression of black women with amour heart( they are strong courageous, bold and still have a place in their heart to love and care after the storms and hurdle...
Category

2010s Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

AGBEKE MI
Located in Culver City, CA
Oil on Canvas Unique Available for display at Taylor Fine Art
Category

2010s Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Well! Do I Know? - Painting, Mixed Media and Collage on Canvas
Located in London, GB
Joseph Kojo Hoggar Well! Do I Know?, 2022 Mixed media and collage on canvas 214 x 208 cm 84 1/4 x 81 7/8 in
Category

2010s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Mixed Media

Untitled
Located in Culver City, CA
Oil on Canvas Unique Available for display at Taylor Fine Art
Category

2010s Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Guilt
Located in Culver City, CA
Accompanying guilt is self condemnation. Actions at times, if not properly handled, bring about its own consequences leaving one with 'had I known'. She, having done that,filled with...
Category

2010s Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Acrylic