MOONLIGHT DANCE

This painting depicts the annual festival performed by the Ibo Ethnic group
In Nigeria to mark the initiation of young girls between the ages of 14 and 18 into womanhood. This ancient tradition begins with the adornment of each girl’s body with intricate designs of patterns using colorful dye pigments; followed by dance practices by all the participating villages.

The first day of the full moon, in early summer, is the evening that the family members of the girls in the age groups who will be initiated gather at the king’s palace for an all-night celebration. If features such events as  dance competitions among the various age groups, mentorship from older women, and other spiritual rituals that enable the young girls to become responsible members of the community.

I used this painting to remind us of our responsibility as good citizens of various communities to teach our children well. We have to cultivate those values that culturally, socially and politically prepare the younger generation to dance to the rhythm of life in such a way that they can harmonize with nature and the natural.

Chuks Echiem. Okoye
October 10, 1993