Fourth Station

In Bruce Onabrakpeya’s Fourth Station, the poignant encounter between Jesus and his mother, Mary, is captured with deep emotional resonance. This moment, which traditionally symbolizes the pain and compassion shared between mother and son, is reimagined in an African context.

Jesus, carrying his cross, is depicted pausing to console his mother, who is dressed in traditional African attire. The choice to portray Mary in African dress emphasizes the universality of this moment, connecting the biblical narrative to African cultural identity. This fusion of Christian and African elements reflects Onabrakpeya’s effort to localize the sacred story, making it more relatable to African audiences while maintaining its spiritual significance.

The expressions of both figures, though subtle, convey a powerful exchange of love and sorrow. The Africanized portrayal of Mary underscores the strength of maternal compassion, a theme that resonates deeply within many African cultures. This station serves not only as a religious icon but also as a tribute to the resilience and dignity of women, particularly African mothers, in the face of suffering.

Through this work, Onabrakpeya extends the meaning of the Passion story, making it both a spiritual and cultural reflection, rich with layers of interpretation.