Ori Blessings
Performance
Ori is a metaphysical concept rooted in Yoruba culture. It refers to the head, but it encompasses much more. Its believed to represent a person's spiritual intuition and destiny, and it is considered an integral part of human consciousness. In fact, Ori is often personified as an Orisha, which is a divine entity in Yoruba spiritualities. It occupies the centre of sacredness, and the physical Ori is a symbol of the inner head, the inner strength or the “Ori-inu” which is the inner person. The concept of Ori has implications for a visual representation of human images.
Connecting and acknowledging the Ori helps individuals to achieve a state of balance and align with their divine self, to experience spiritual and physical healing. It is believed that Ori plays a pivotal role in determining one's destiny and that whatever happens in a person's life is influenced by their Ori.
The essence of this contact performance lies in a close interaction that entails sharing the recognition of our inner divinity and intuition with the audience through adorning their heads, exchanging stories, scarves, and illuminating the significance of the head as a pivotal center for controlling vital energy. The objective is to introduce non-European knowledge to the spectators, emphasizing the profound impact of West African culture in Brazil, which has left a legacy and heritage that unites communities and connects identities with textiles from the diverse shores of the Atlantic Ocean, including Ireland.
Presented at glór.
Photos: Eamon Ward
