Ẹmindin


Tomorrow, the 15th of June, and on the same day each year, my community celebrates the arrival of the New Yam. It is a special day when the first harvest of the new yam is officially presented to and eaten by the traditional ruler of our community. It is a day of thanksgiving and a celebration of the harvest that comes after twelve months of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice by our farmers.

The traditional name of the New Yam is “Ẹmindin.” When a tuber of the new yam arrives in a home, everyone present touches the yam with a finger and, with that same finger, touches their chest and says: “Ẹmindin mo ri wọ me tu ku.” This translates to: “New Yam, I have seen you; I will not die.” This beautiful tradition expresses gratitude, hope, and the joy of welcoming a new season of abundance.

This painting is my tribute to the hardworking men and women who, despite the many challenges they face, continue to labour tirelessly to ensure that food is placed on the tables of their families throughout the year. It is a celebration of resilience, commitment, and the dignity of hard work.

It is also a celebration of God’s presence in their daily struggles and triumphs. It reminds us that every harvest is a blessing. Like the Thanksgiving celebration in the United States, our New Yam Festival is a time to give thanks, rejoice, and appreciate the abundance that comes from the earth.

This painting is my humble contribution to that celebration. It is a celebration of culture, gratitude, and the enduring spirit of our farmers.

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