Iya Oloja (Market Woman) - buy Digital Print

100% hand-drawn prints. Limited prints buy are available so you're getting a unique piece of art!
Iya Oloja (or Iya'loja) in Yoruba literally translates to "Mother of the Market". Across various Yoruba markets and the states they belong to, an Iya'loja is usually democratically chosen by her constituents and is thereafter confirmed by the Oba (King), or single-handedly chosen by the Oba himself. She is not only the leader of the market, she is a trader, mother-figure to many and of course a mother to her own children. This simple piece depicts a common sight at the Nigerian market - the market woman trading while caring for her children.