Researcher(s)
- Favour Onu, Fine Arts, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- David Brinley, Art and Design, University of Delaware
Abstract
This project explores the rich cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom and its lasting influence on modern-day Nigerian culture. Through two original artworks, one portraying the daily life of commoners in a traditional marketplace, and the other representing the royal places and the king overlooking his kingdom. The projects highlight the balance between ordinary life and royal authority within the empire. The goal is to uncover and visually retell a history that is not widely known.
My research focused on understanding the culture, people, and architecture of the Benin kingdom. I studied books and writing by credible African historians, many of whom emphasized the importance of respect, title, and family structure in Benin society. I collected data through visual reference, historical texts, and cultural description, which shaped my painting and digital artwork. The creation process included sketches, not all of which made it into the final pieces.
The results reveal how deeply embedded the value of royalty, ceremony, and social order were in the Benin kingdom. However, there is still more to uncover, such as the event that led to the kingdom’s fall, the expansion of the empire, and the roles of past kings. In the future, I hope to explore more about the royal family, the war that they fought, and the long-term cultural impact of this powerful African civilization.
The project matters because the Benin kingdom was one of the great empires of Africa, rising as early as the 13th century. Its legacy continues to influence Nigerian culture today. Anyone interested in African history, identity, or heritage should care because remembering this history helps us better understand who we are and where we come from.