Abuja Arts and Crafts Village, Abuja
If you are a passionate lover for unique arts, make sure to come by the Abuja Arts & Crafts Village! Thatch-roofed huts made from red clay are designed to give you the traditional Nigerian experience. You can find two very famous Nigerian monuments here: the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre and the Silverbird Entertainment Centre. Here, you can find authentic Nigerian arts ranging from beautifully crafted sculptures, beaded necklaces and bracelets, African traditional masks, traditional leather bags, and tie-dye clothes. Interactions with artists are greatly encouraged and you can even have an artwork commissioned just for you!
Nigerian art is truly unique in the way that every work has a spiritual significance behind it. The Nigerian art scene is slowly growing, garnering international interest. There are many places where different types of artists can show off their abilities. As a bonus, the lovely Sheraton Hotels provides a very convenient backdrop so that you can can explore to your heart’s content.
Pay attention to the different arts that can be found in the village. The Igbo-Ukwu bronzes are well known for its precise and intricate designs; these statutes often seem very life-like. Nigeria is also famous for its pottery which are covered with spiritual images that symbolize sacred elements. Many Nigerian potters are female and the techniques are passed down from families. Yoruba textiles are very colorful with interesting patterns. The colors are made using natural substances such as shrubs. Contrast to popular beliefs, the men actually do most of the weaving while the women do the dying. Yoruba masks are a symbol of animist faith which is tied to Christianity. The masks are usually painted to symbolize people or animals. In ceremonies, people wear the masks to communicate and appease the spirits. Ivory jewelries are used as decorative items and figurines of an altar. Wood carvings are unique in the fact that they not only serve as beautiful decorations, but they have practical implements too. They can also serve as household utensils. Woven grass are used to make baskets, fans, and hats while cane weaving is used to create bigger furniture items like chairs and tables. Beads glasses are used to add flavors to other crafts. They often symbolize good luck. This profession is usually inherited through years of apprenticeship. With all these exotic and mighty fine Nigerian art, there must be something that will surely catch your eye!