From Tradition to Yarn: Translating Igbo Art into Knitted Masterpieces

9 October 2024
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Designer and knitter Marvel Ekwuribe tells us the story of a singular and significant knitting project.

The Igbo people, primarily located in southeastern Nigeria (with significant populations in Cameroon, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea), are known for their rich cultural and historical heritage. They express their traditions through a variety of art forms, such as ceremonial scripts like Nsibidi, Akwete cloth weaving, Uli (body and mural art), wood carving, and the intricate lost wax bronze casting technique.

In this article, we will delve into the intricate world of traditional Igbo arts, focusing on Akwete cloth weaving, Uli symbols, and the Nsibidi writing system. We will also explore how these traditional art forms can be translated into knitting, offering a unique way to preserve and celebrate Igbo heritage.

All images courtesy Marvel Ekwuribe.

Copyright © Marvel Ekwuribe except as indicated.

About Marvel Ekwuribe

Marvel is a passionate knit and crochet enthusiast with over ten years of experience, crafting beautiful knitwear and delving into the world of design. By day, she works as a full-time Implementation specialist, using her analytical skills to help companies track and reduce their emissions. Her love for problem solving and data drive her career, where she combines technical expertise with environmental responsibility. Outside of work, Marvel channels her entrepreneurial spirit into NỌNSÓ, a small business she’s been nurturing for almost five years. NỌNSÓ offers handmade, natural body care products, including hair oils, body butters, and roller perfumes—reflecting her dedication to high-quality, thoughtfully crafted personal care. As a proud Hamiltonian, Marvel embraces her community, especially through weekly knitting sessions with friends. Whether designing intricate knitwear or contributing to a more sustainable future, she balances her creative passions with her analytical mind.

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