Project Abstract

Decorative motifs and forms found in objects used in durbar show form the
inspiration and indeed the basis for the conduct of this study. Some of these
beautiful decorative motifs, which may be found in use in the arts of other cultural
groups in Nigeria and around Africa, consist of various kinds of circles, chevrons,
zigzags, spirals, and the famous dagi, (feline paw) popularly known as the
northern knot. Durbar displays a very rich collection of costumes worn by
participants such as the Royal fathers, the Knights and the chiefs. Others include
stewards, musicians and warriors. All of these participants serve different
functions and possess distinctive costumes that identify them from each other.
So also are horses adorned with beautiful costumes of captivating grandeur
befitting the status of the rider. It is observed that some artists ventured into
research on traditional forms and motifs from various sources but did not
specifically focus attention on durbar decorative motifs for research purposes.
It is therefore the problem of this study to highlight and exploit some of these
durbar decorative forms and motifs used as decoration in the Emir’s procession
for an analytical study in painting as a means of documenting and of ushering in
a new dimension to visual expression. This research study is therefore centered
around durbar decorative forms and motifs in the Zaria Emirate.
Various options are tried with motifs, rider, horse, musical instruments and colour
in the studio projects which followed. This research effort is intended in the long
run, to provide an academic foundation for budding artists to broaden their scope
in art perception and practice and to open up new ways and styles of expression
through the use of traditional decorative motifs in painting.

Project Overview