Segun Okewumi Unveils ‘Orí – The Forge of Human Destiny’, New Wood and Metal Sculpture
By Dim Oba, LAGOS – Nigerian artist Segun Okewumi has unveiled a new sculpture titled Orí – The Forge of Human Destiny, exploring the spiritual and cultural significance of Orí (the head) in Yoruba mythology, where it is regarded as the custodian and determinant of human destiny.
Executed in wood and metal, the 2026 artwork offers a contemporary interpretation of the Yoruba belief in the spiritual importance of the human head.
The sculpture measures 30 inches in height, 10 inches in length and 12 inches in width.
In a statement accompanying the work on Facebook, Okewumi explained that Orí occupies a central position in Yoruba cosmology because of its perceived influence on the course of human life.
He referenced the Yoruba maxim, “Orí ló ní ṣe,” which conveys the belief that one’s destiny is tied to one’s Orí.
According to the artist, the significance of Orí is also reflected in traditional religious practices, where blessings and spiritual rites are often directed towards the head.
Okewumi said the sculpture was inspired by the iconic Ife artwork Orí Olókun, while representing his attempt to examine the concept of Orí from a contemporary artistic perspective.
He described the piece as a reflection of his signature approach of combining different materials, noting that the choice of wood and metal also represents an opportunity to promote collaboration, unity and meaningful connections among people.
The sculpture features geometric motifs carefully arranged across the head, which the artist said are intended to dignify it as the crown of the human body while introducing a modern aesthetic.
Executed with a degree of abstraction, the work brings together traditional Yoruba philosophy and contemporary sculptural expression.
Through Orí – The Forge of Human Destiny, Okewumi draws attention to the enduring relevance of indigenous African knowledge systems and their capacity to inspire contemporary art.
The sculpture also reflects the continuing influence of Yoruba mythology on artistic expression, offering audiences an opportunity to engage with questions of identity, spirituality and human destiny through visual art.
