Ata Ire
An exhibition by Abayomi Shogbade
Ata Ire – The fire that brings good fortune.
AN EXHIBITION BY ABAYOMI SHOGBADE
APRIL 2024
A custom that has been carried down through the years like an unbroken thread is woven deeply through Yoruba culture. In these cultures, pepper (ata) is deeply significant not only as a spice, but as a representation of identity, strength and resilience. Beyond taste, ata is a symbol of heritage in Nigeria, where the Yoruba people have made it a staple of their food and way of life. Likewise, the core of what Yoruba women contribute to their families and communities is ire, which is a symbol of blessings, prosperity, and good fortume.
The Yoruba proverb “Emil to o je ata, emi yepere ni” (meaning “The spirit that does not eat pepper is a feeble one”) serves as a reminder that ata feeds the soul as well as the body. It is as essential, unforgettable, and fiery as the Yoruba women who have been carrying this heritage for decades. Through their hands, ata has served as more than just food; it has been a symbol of strength and care, a force of continuity, and a link between the past and future.
The relationship between tradition and identity is explored in the artwork series Ata Ire. The rich beauty of dark skin, the complex creativity of African hairstyles, and the potent presence of ata as a cultural symbol are the main points of emphasis, free from the distractions of wardrobes. The initiative highlights the value of maintaining customs that define who we are, the resilience of dark skin, and the classic beauty of African women.
This is more than just a celebration of ata; it is a visual narrative of heritage, showing how culture endures, how tradition endures, and how we, as stewards of our history, must continue to respect and protect the traditions that have been passed down to us.
A little about me – I am a Nigerian photographer, visual artist, and art director based in Swansea, UK. My work is deeply influenced by African mythology, heritage, and identity, with a focus on portrait and fashion photography that challenges stereotypes and celebrates Black beauty. I have exhibited internationally, including at Madeke Gallery (2024), Cipriarte Venezia Gallery (Venice, 2024), Andalukova Gallery (Dubai, 2024) and The Holy Art Gallery (London, 2024).
