Indigenous Architecture Archives ~ Ozi Ikòrò

08

Mmụọ na mmadụ na-ebi ọnụ n’ụwa a—Spirits and humans coexist in this world. This proverb reminds the Igbo that the visible and invisible share one space and nature is not…

01

Mar 2025

Anthropology and Ethnography Historical Studies Indigenous Architecture

The Impact of Christianity on Women’s Power in Anioma: From Pre-Colonial Influence to Modern Subjugation

"Igbo woman from Illah. Southern Nigeria." Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. [Postcard] In the present day, Christianity has really subdued women's power. Christian practices changed how women lived from what it…

09

Feb 2025

Historical Studies Indigenous Architecture

The Ikenga GT: A 1960s Luxury Car Inspired by Igbo Culture

Introduction The Ikenga GT, a luxury grand touring (GT) car developed in the 1960s, remains a remarkable example of automotive design blending African cultural inspiration with modern engineering. Named after…

09

Feb 2025

Cultural Heritage Indigenous Architecture ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Mbari Artists: The Spiritual Painters of the Igbo People

Mbari is a unique and deeply spiritual artistic tradition of the Igbo people, specifically practiced in the Urata (Oratta) and Echie (Etche) regions of present-day Imo State and Rivers State.…

09

Feb 2025

Indigenous Architecture ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Ala, the Earth Mother: The Sacred Guardian of Igbo Morality and Fertility

Ala (also spelled Àlị or Ani) is one of the most significant deities in Igbo cosmology, embodying the earth, morality, fertility and justice. She is the giver of life, the…

02

Feb 2025

Historical Studies Indigenous Architecture

The Women’s War of 1929: A Defiant Stand Against Colonial Oppression

In November 2019, the 90th anniversary of the Women’s War, known in Igbo as Ògù Ụmùnwaànyị was commemorated. This historic uprising, which took place from 1929 to 1930, remains one…

01

Feb 2025

Indigenous Architecture ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Alusį Compounds, Colonial Suppression, and the Transformation of Igbo Spirituality

Alusi (divinity) compound, unknown Igbo community, probably in today's Anambra State. Photographed by Tom Eighmy. University of Wisconsin. In an unknown Igbo community, likely in present-day Anambra State, the Alusį (divinity)…

17

Jan 2025

Indigenous Architecture ⁠Religion and Spirituality

The Ekpe House and the Evolution of Nsibidi: Cultural Secrecy and Colonial Influence in Southeastern Nigeria

The Ekpe House or Ulò Èkpè, is an anthropomorphic structure traditionally constructed for the funeral rites of Ekpe members in Abiriba, part of the Cross River Igbo cultural area in…

31

Dec 2024

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Historical Studies Indigenous Architecture Photos ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Igbo Language and Art: Preserving Heritage and Promoting Growth

Women decorating the Iyiazi shrine in Agukwu Nri, located in present-day Anambra State, Nigeria, 1984. Photographs taken by Chike Aniakor. The Igbo language and art are integral components of the cultural…

11

Dec 2024

Cultural Heritage Historical Studies Indigenous Architecture

Ojei Masquerade: Symbolism, Performance, and Spirituality in Ndokwa Culture

Ojei masquerade, Ashaka Ojei Masquerade: Symbolism, Performance, and Spirituality in Ndokwa Culture Ojei Masquerade is a cultural symbol in Ndokwa Area of Delta State that is being celebrated, specifically…