Mary-Lucy Okwuowulu (DMMM)
Department of Art in Visual Media
American University of Florence, Italy
Abstract
This study explores the concept of Incultura on within the Catholic Chris an tradi on in Nigeria,
with a specific focus on Marian iconography. Rooted in the framework of incultura on theology,
the research interrogates how indigenous cultural aesthe cs, symbols, and spiritual expressions
can be integrated into Catholic representa ons of the Virgin Mary. The study employs a qualita ve
methodology, u lizing semi-structured, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with
three Catholic bishops and a selec on of Catholic faithful across Nigeria. Through their lived
experiences and theological reflec ons, the study examines how tradi onal Marian images, o en
based on Western iconographic standards, may be reimagined to reflect Nigerian cultural iden ty
without compromising doctrinal integrity. A visual model of a proposed Nigerian Marian
iconography is developed, reflec ng elements of local dress, symbols, and spirituality, thereby
bridging the gap between faith and culture. Findings reveal a strong desire among par cipants for
contextualized religious symbols that affirm their cultural heritage while deepening devo on. This
study contributes to ongoing scholarly and ecclesial discourse on African Chris anity by offering
a theological and ar s c paradigm for Marian representa on that resonates with Nigerian
cultural sensibili es and enhances religious expression in contemporary Catholic worship.
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