Samuel Oyebode

Samuel Oyebode, a contemporary Yoruba artist of Nigerian descent, is currently immersed in his studies and artistic pursuits within the South African landscape. His work intricately weaves the Yoruba philosophical concept of iwa I ewa, focusing on the inherent qualities that distinguish good from bad character in the historical context of Yoruba society. Oyebode sees a profound connection between iwa I ewa and ubuntu, both of which underscore the essence of African humanist philosophy, emphasizing the importance of human relationships and communication.

Confronted with the challenges of xenophobic violence in urban South Africa, Oyebode's art becomes a medium through which he seeks to reignite and foster a sense of communal spirit, aligning with the core tenets of African humanist philosophy. His work advocates for a return to traditional values such as iwa-pele (calm character), suuru (patience), Imoju-mora (sensibility), Ifarabale (calmness), iluti (good hearing), and tito (preservation of culture). Through his art, Oyebode aims to promote love, humanism, communalism, and ubuntu not only in South African society but across the African continent, urging a reconnection with these philosophies to navigate the complexities of modern African societies.

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