Paying Homage to Yoruba “Orishas” | See Atlanta Photographer James C. Lewis’ Exhibition

If you’ve ever wondered what Yoruba gods like Sango or Obatala looked like, here’s your chance to find out.

Depicting the beauty and essence of the ‘Orishas’ i.e divinities of the Yoruba culture, in Western Nigeria, Atlanta-based Photographer James C. Lewis created the ‘Orisha’ art exhibition to portray the Yoruba gods through art and illustration. The Yoruba culture, which is one of the largest tribes in Nigeria, has at least 1,700 gods of which 20 are recognized or most famous. Some of these gods are worshiped in their own rights while others are paid tribute through holidays and festivals.

Lewis was intrigued by the culture and the stories behind them and sought to portray their royalty and character using models and creative digital photography. In the images are gods – Ogun, Esu, Oya, Yemoja, Olokun, Orunmila, Osun, Sango, Aganju, Osanyin, Obatala, Babaluaye, Oba, Erinle, Oko, Osunmare, Ori, Olorun, Ibeji and Osoosi.

Check it out.

We love the illustrations. What do you think of the art?