Sustainable Development of Igala Culture: The Aesthetics of INA ?L? (Body Decoration) Amongst the Igala People as a Form of Art

Abstract

Body art or decoration is the ornamentation or reshaping of the human body, usually for aesthetics, status or identification purposes. Most forms of body art, including piercing (for the purpose of wearing jewelries or other ornaments), tattooing, branding, and scarification are either permanent or irreversible; meanwhile, others, such as painting or dyeing are temporary or reversible. This act of piercing or making incision on the human body has long been associated with mankind, and has been universally recognized as an integral part of the fabric of human art and existence. Initially, it was for identity and stigmatization but later it metamorphosised into other modes of expressions such as for aesthetics and self-expression in art and fashion. The exact date as to when this form of art began cannot be ascertained. However, it has taken root in different societies and culture and has equally evolved in various shapes and dimensions. Today, one can visibly see elaborate coloured decorations and other intricate designs on human body around the world irrespective of race, colour and creed. The study of this form of art has become a phenomenon worthy of scholarly attention. This paper therefore, will be an assessment of how the culture has been sustained through this form of art amongst the Igala people of the eastern part of Kogi State in Nigeria, the methodology of this work is survey method and descriptive analysis and the focus is to identify the various forms of piercing or making incision on the human body