Chuma: Isi Afulu Kwaba Okpu by Chuma Anagbado

This piece, made from brightly coloured Plexiglass cut-outs, features a reimagined Igbo red cap with two eagle feathers on both sides. The cap is surrounded by lines and motifs from the traditional Igbo Uli art form. The physical counterpart of this work is an outdoor installation measuring 15 feet x 12 feet and made with transparent & coloured plexiglass.

The red cap is a mark of achievement that became predominantly used by the Igbo title system after the war, replacing the animal skin initially tied around the head by title holders. The size of the cap indicates the class of the title holder, and these dimensions can vary from community to community. In modern times, the cap is often decorated with eagle feathers, cowries, and other symbolic elements.

This artwork immortalizes the memory of a great man, a loving father and accomplished individual, Chief Lawrence Oragwu, Ezeani Okosisi Na Eche Ndo of Adazi-Nnukwu, Anaocha Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria. Chief Oragwu was in contention to become the Adama of Adazi-Nnukwu before he was kidnapped and has not been seen till date.