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Niger Delta Journal of Philosophy & African Values

Published by Department of Philosophy, Niger Delta University
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Analyzing Spirit Forms in Obi Ekwenchi’s “From the Spirit World” and “Rhythm (From the Spirit World)” Paintings

Pages 71-84
DOI: 10.66286/ndjop.fl9hhadb
Keywords: Spirit Forms Interpretation Western Canon Antediluvian Practice

Abstract

Metaphysical auras, or spirit forms, have been a recurring theme in art and culture for centuries, with diverse interpretations across the African continent. Ekwenchi's paintings exemplify a profound understanding of this ancient discipline, reflecting either a deliberate revival or a continuum of knowledge that persists beyond the disruptions of Western influence. Rooted in antediluvian practice, the portrayal of spirit forms in African visual traditions encapsulates a cosmological worldview that predates and, in many respects, transcends the epistemological frameworks imposed by Western canons. This study presents a comprehensive survey of existing arguments on metaphysical auras, highlighting their enduring significance in art, culture, and spiritual expression. The discussion critically examines the extent to which Western aesthetic traditions have reshaped or paradoxically reinvigorated indigenous practices. The findings will be valuable for future studies and pedagogical learning, offering nuanced insights into the intersection of art, culture, and spirituality within the Nigerian and broader African context, ultimately affirming the resilience and continued relevance of metaphysical thought in African artistic practice.

How to Cite

Yibowei, Z. D. & Polo, A. E. (2026). Analyzing Spirit Forms in Obi Ekwenchi’s “From the Spirit World” and “Rhythm (From the Spirit World)” Paintings. Niger Delta Journal of Philosophy & African Values, 1(1), 71-84. https://doi.org/10.66286/ndjop.fl9hhadb

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