chrissabug

✨Public Art Post//Ọya Goddess

Added 2024-04-26 12:00:07 +0000 UTC

Oya, also known as Oiá, is a prominent and powerful African goddess who is widely worshipped in several West African, Brazilian, and Caribbean countries. She is a fierce and powerful goddess associated with storms, transformation, death, and rebirth.

Hello my lovelies! First time dipping into Afro centric mythology (aside from Egypt). It was so fun to dive in and learn more about this goddess, who has a few different interpretations depending on the region.

Here's a quick summary of one version of her story.

One version of the story describes Oya as one of the wives of Shango, the god of thunder and lightning. In this narrative, Oya possesses a strong and assertive personality. She is often portrayed with a machete or sword, symbolizing her ability to cut through obstacles and bring about change.

The story goes that Oya had a tumultuous relationship with Shango, marked by passion and conflict. During a particular confrontation, Shango angered Oya, and in her fury, she unleashed powerful winds and storms. This led to a series of events that resulted in significant transformations and changes in the world.

Of course, it's important to note that variations of her story change depending on the cultural or religious tradition.

Anyhoo! I hope you guys like my interpretation of her. I love how the colors of this piece turned out. When I first heard she was a goddess associated with lightning, I didn't immediately think red for her, BUT in her mythology red is associated with her, so I went for it. and actually, I think it turned out better then I expected!

Goodies for this piece (full res art, timelapse video, PSD, Sketch, Lineart, Process shots, and Wallpapers) are available in the Pledged Patreon Post!