Eulogising The Concept Of Peace In The Paintings Of Jacob Onoja

Abstract

Contemporary art practice in Nigeria has witnessed great patronage and gaining acceptance in the country. Artists have worked concertedly in their studios before bringing to the public spaces exhibitions of their creations. One of such artists is Jacob Enemona Onoja, a painter cum art historian whose unique style of landscape painting draws attention to peace issues. In this part of the world, Nigeria, particularly the northern part of the country has witnessed several religious, ethnic and communal crises. In recent times, the political scenario has added to the upheavals in the country. One of which was the 2011 general elections in Nigeria. Many souls were lost and people rendered homeless. Artists, especially in Plateau State, took the initiative to produce works which could speak against the incessant crises in the State and the need to pursue peace. This paper draws attention to how the artworks of Jacob Onoja advance peace through the allegories of their creation. The purposive method was used to select works from a large collection of the artist in order to streamline the discussion to peace and conflict resolution.