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The Art Of Akwete

Legend has it that the very first piece of Akwete fabric was woven centuries ago by a barren woman, her unwavering love for her warrior husband guiding her hands as she wove an Egerebite to protect him on the battlefield.

The Art of Akwete is a pioneering documentary that celebrates the rich tradition of Akwete weaving, one of Nigeria’s oldest art forms. Our film uniquely captures the story of Akwete craft, resonating with today’s focus on cultural preservation, sustainable practices, and digital innovation—making it a compelling choice for audiences worldwide.

Our documentary dives into Akwete weaving’s roots, an art passed down through generations in Eastern Nigeria. Offering a poignant exploration of how traditional artisans are keeping the craft alive. Beyond celebrating heritage, The Art of Akwete embraces a forward-looking perspective by exploring the fabric's potential in digital realms, from NFTs to gaming. This blend of tradition and innovation positions the film as more than a documentary—it’s an entry point for modern audiences to connect with the generational relevance of African art’s and future possibilities.

  • Oloriegbe Sefinah
    Director
    Has worked with both local and international platforms like Soundcity Africa,Spice Tv Africa, The Ummah Network, Urban Abode Realty SMG Durban, The Diamond Works South Africa, Heritage Bank Nigeria, Viacom, Johnny Walker to name a few.
  • Sefinah Lamii
    Writer
    Lead Writer for Africa's foremost fashion tv station Spice Tv Africa, Writer for The Soundcity Africa Awards, Writer The All progressive party national Convention Documentary, writer fashion and lifestyle docuseries The Spice Destination Show, spiritual and entrepreneurship docuseries Living Islam, and many more global projects.
  • Omowaiye Leke
    Writer
    Leke is a seasoned writer and educator with over 15 years of writing experience. During the course of his career he has written privately for some of the most renowned public figures of today.
  • Ikudabo Timi
    Producer
    Wizkid’s VVIP Experience, Urban Music Festival, The Insidious Documentary, Comedy Fest Dubai, Jameson Connect Ghana and Uganda, Redbull MEO and More.
  • Sulaimon Kehinde Ganiyat
    Producer
    worked on live events like the Soundcity Awards, The Globalcom 20th Anniversary show, The Nancy isime show, Spill the tea with the Abebes, Martel Nigeria, Jonny Walker and more.
  • Victor Okezie Ikpeazu Okezie Ikpeazu Ikpeazu
    Key Cast
    "as himself"
    Governor Abia State Nigeria
  • Sam Hart
    Key Cast
    "As himself"
    Director General Abia state marketing and quality agency
  • Evelyn Iheoma Osuagwu
    Key Cast
    "as herself"
    CURATOR NATIONAL WAR MUSEUM UMUAHIA
  • Okeowo Adeniyi Mohammed
    Key Cast
    "as himself "
    international creative director, founder of Astra
  • Emmanuel Okoro
    Key Cast
    "as himself"
    CREATIVE DIRECTOR and founder EMMY KASBIT
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Genres:
    History, cultural
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 6 minutes 26 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 5, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    185,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Nigeria
  • Country of Filming:
    Nigeria
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, 3840x2160 (1.0), RED.
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16.9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Oloriegbe Sefinah

Sefinah Oloriegbe is an experienced Documentary and Television Producer and Director with over 8 years of professional working experience in Broadcast Media, Entertainment, and News.

Sefinah has produced and directed Tv shows spanning over 100 episodes of the daily news, over 10 seasons of Documentaries ranging from topics on lifestyle, religion, fashion/beauty to name a few. In the earlier years of her career she served as an associate Producer for Spice Tv Africa before going on to lead as Channel Supervising producer for Group8 media.

During the course of her career she has worked with both local and international platforms like Soundcity Africa, Spice Tv Africa, The Ummah Network, Urban Abode Realty, SMG Durban, The Diamond Works South Africa, Heritage Bank Nigeria, Viacom, and Johnny Walker to name a few.

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Director Statement

“The Art of Akwete" holds a special place in my heart. It is not just a documentary; but a story that I felt compelled to tell, one worth risking everything to bring to life.

The Akwete fabric isn’t just a textile; it’s a living, breathing cultural language that has transcended time. Our film explores its significance, and the Akwete's future in the digital age. While rediscovering the effects of the Biafran civil war on the Akwete community, shedding light on the challenges they have overcome and the strength they have demonstrated in rebuilding their lives and preserving their cultural traditions.

Our film takes you through a fusion of ancient culture and modern sustainability— a unique combination of tradition, history and technology, a story we believe will resonate deeply with global audiences.

"The Art of Akwete" is more than just a film; it's a testament to the beauty of human creativity and the resilience of the human spirit.