Afro Heroes

Western Orishas

This series loosely explores representations of West African deities and places them in the western sub culture context of super heroes.

Mixed symblo of Mamiwata and wonderwoman using west african fabrics

Symbol of Hebieso, west african deity using west african fabrics and patterns

Hebieso

The Flash

comparable to Shango in attributes, Hebieso is the god of thunder, lightning, and storms. He is considered a powerful, fierce, and just deity who wields the forces of nature. Lightning is often seen as his weapon or sign of his presence and power.

 

Mixed symblo of Mamiwata and wonderwoman using west african fabrics

Mamiwata

Wonder Woman

Similar to Yemoja/yemaya, the mother of all Orishas, Yemoja and Mamiwata is associated with the sea, motherhood, and fertility. She is seen as a protector and nurturer of children

  

symbol of orisha Ogun mixed with Thor symbol in west african fabrics

Ogun-Onile

Thor Hammer

The Orisha of iron, war, and labor. Ogun is a fierce warrior deity but also the patron of blacksmiths, hunters, and anyone who works with metal.

  

I was interested in exploring this as someone from Benin who has grown up in both backgrounds of west african culture and western culture. Vodun is a strong part of my childhood and learning about some of the deities inspired me to create blazons and celebrate the richness of the stories.
Retrieved from blog archive 2013