Culture and Aesthetic Sensibilities of Ekiti People Through the Iconology of Epa Headrests (Published)
Art is usually a means of documenting peoples’ tastes, thoughts, and attitudes, which depend on their philosophies, past experiences, and current happenings within the society. In the same vein, the forms on Epa masks showcase the background culture of Ekiti people, as well as their worldview in relation to rewards for pragmatism, through the celebration of influential personalities. Therefore, this paper looks at the variations of forms on Epa mask headrests, aiming to extract its producers’ philosophies, aesthetic sensibilities, and core values, for a better understanding of both the images and the background culture. It concludes by highlighting many early customs showcased in Epa headrests that are no longer practiced in the communities today, eroded by acculturation and the introduction of new ways of life.
Keywords: Aesthetics, Culture, Ekiti people, Epa, Iconology