TITLE: Oya

Medium: Acrylic on Wood

Oya is a ruler of the wind. She is depicted with a strong, burning red, as she shares a fiery temperature with the widely known orisha Shango. There is wind swirling around her as she is shown with roots and branches. For this ‘Rooted’ series, Laolu has featured compelling and powerful Orishas to express the meaningful way in which Youba culture is rooted in the concept of ancestry.

Oya is celbrated by and surrounded by worshipers of her. Most Yoruba Orishas can be likened to becoming highly venerated ancestors. In many ways, Orishas are like ancestors whose decendants and worshippers honor their journey, wisdom, and values. Here Oya is being celebrated with drums.