AN EXAMINATION OF TRADITIONAL MURAL ART OF THE EFIKS IN CROSS RIVER STATE,NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This project was carried out to, examine, traditional muralart of the Efiks.The primary objectives include documenting Efik mural art through photographs, find out the period or date, visit sites, verify the artists of the art tradition, study Efik mural art to ascertain the composition of Efik mural art and identify the stylistic features of the arts. The methodology involves the use of data collection from both primary and secondary sources. Findings indicates that photographs of Efik mural art documented showed that it dates back to the origin of the Efik people to the present day, the mural artists are mostly male mural painters. In terms of composition, the Art materials are sourced within the environment (market),while the motifs are composed of stylized objects and geometric patterns. The functions of Efik traditional murals include religion, communication, historical narration.education and aesthetics. Results from interviews with respondents revealed materials used for Efik murals are natural pigments, clay, wood, and other natural materials. Geometric patterns, figurative representations, and symbolic motifs are distinctive stylistic elements of Efik mural art. Also, there are regional variations within Efik mural art, reflecting different cultural and historical contexts.Environmental degradation, vandalism, climate change, neglect, and urbanization are major threats to Efik murals while efforts to preserve Efik murals include documentation, restoration, and education, led by organizations such as the Efik Cultural Heritage Preservation Society and the Cross River State Government.Overall, the study concludes that Efik mural arts are essential in promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Efiks, though technological and religious development have negative significant impact, the study recommends among others that indigenes of Efik should be educated on the importance of preserving cultural heritage and traditions of their society through mass media, mural paintings,art historians and socio cultural organizations.