Research paper for the course History of African and Oceanic Art. The goal of the paper was  to improve our knowledge and understanding of one particular topic. Papers needed to be a minimum of five pages of text with footnotes or endnotes and a bibliography. A minimum of seven primary and secondary research sources were also required.

Abstract

Ona is intrinsically linked to design, colors, and symbols used in Nigerian Shrine paintings. It was about the rediscovery of the past, and as the European Renaissance, this was a rebirth. This paper will analyze four works from three artists tied to the Ona movement, searching their work for connections to the artistic roots of Nigeria, with emphasis on the symbols and artistic styles found in shrines. As part of this paper, I reached out to a founding member to gain his perspective on the movement. This paper also addresses the controversy surrounding the founding of the Ona Art movement.