With the Return of Kwalliya Echoes Past Traditions and Aesthetics

Yinka Olatunbosun

Art enthusiasts should be flocking to Ahmadu Bello University as the acclaimed documentary photographer Halima Abubakar makes a triumphant return with her captivating show, titled Kwalliya: A Journey of Adornment. This groundbreaking exhibition looks deeply into the intricate and captivating world of traditional tattoos, promising a journey of cultural immersion and profound self-realisation.

Her first captivating exhibition of this kind was proudly hosted at the prestigious Jelosimi Art Centre, nestled in the vibrant heart of Lagos, in 2023. For her, visual storytelling stands as an eternal odyssey—a narrative interwoven with whispers of cultural legacies and untold histories. In a recent voice message, she unveiled her profound fascination with the intricate artistry and symbolism of Kwalliya, the time-honoured tradition of tattooing in Northern Nigeria—an ancient saga that has ignited her spirit for years. The exhibition, a magnum opus born of unwavering ardour and unquenchable curiosity, radiates a luminescent vibrancy, showcasing the ancient echoes of tradition and aesthetics. Each creation is a testament to the resilience and allure of Nigerian heritage—a radiant beacon illuminating the collective identity and kaleidoscopic beauty of a rich cultural adornment.

Her quest to educate and inspire the younger generation extends beyond the mere creation of textiles; it is an impassioned mission to revive the forgotten artistry of traditional tattoo designs lingering in the shadows of history. With each delicate stitch and carefully chosen fabric, she reenacts the memories of cultural heritage, beckoning the youths to reconnect with the essence of their indigenous roots. Encouraged by the grant from National Geographic, she ardently delves into the intricate details of historical significance, aiming to spark meaningful dialogues that transcend time and geographical boundaries. Through her project “Adornment,” she seeks to empower individuals to seek, discover, and preserve the treasures of their ancestry for a brighter, more enlightened future. “Everything that’s happening in the world at present started from a point,” she says.

The Kwalliya exhibition, which opened on Saturday, May 25, at the prestigious Fine Arts Department of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, is on until May 31. It encapsulates the riveting essence of legendary artists like the iconic Zaria Rebels. Amidst the vibrant displays, a spellbinding artist talk session awaits on May 30. This immersive experience delves deep into the enigmatic world of cultural tattoos once scorned in the North. Abubakar’s innovative techniques unveiled at the show promise to redefine artistic boundaries and ignite passions anew.

“I did a lot of work that had to do with dyeing,” she discloses. “I have a lot of fabrics that I dyed with normal tie and dye. I also dyed with henna. Henna is a replacement for the traditional tattoos that were done using the barber’s tools and black soot from under the pot.

“I also made these marks on calabashes, which are known objects in the North. It is something that is dear to us and sometimes used as a musical instrument or a form of memorabilia.”