Eleventh Station

In The Eleventh Station of Bruce Onabrakpeya's Stations of the Cross series, the artwork powerfully depicts the moment when Jesus is being nailed to the cross by the guards. This poignant scene captures the profound suffering and sacrifice of Jesus as he is affixed to the cross, a symbol of his ultimate sacrifice for humanity.

Onabrakpeya's portrayal emphasizes not only the physical pain that Jesus endures but also the emotional and spiritual weight of this moment. The guards, dressed in British colonial uniforms, are depicted with a sense of authority and brutality, further emphasizing the themes of oppression and injustice that permeate the series. The juxtaposition of the guards’ power against Jesus' vulnerability highlights the tension between the oppressor and the oppressed.

The use of color, line, and form in this artwork enhances the drama of the scene, drawing the viewer into the emotional turmoil of the moment. The nails, a central focus of the composition, symbolize both physical pain and the act of sacrifice, serving as a reminder of the depth of Jesus’ commitment to his mission.

Through this powerful imagery, Onabrakpeya invites viewers to reflect on the themes of suffering, redemption, and the historical context of colonization, connecting the biblical narrative to broader struggles for dignity and justice.