A Gateway into African Spirituality — Guardian Life — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

In the bustling heart of Lagos, Nigeria, where the echoes of ancient stories intertwine with the rhythm of modern life, Vortex Comics has unveiled its magnum opus, the “Hall of Spirits,” an Afrofuturism comics anthology, during the first of its kind comic art exhibition in all of West Africa.

The “Hall of Spirits” is not your typical run-of-the-mill comic; it’s a genre coined and developed by the visionary creators at Vortex Comics, rooted in “Spirit Fiction,” set to redefine the way we perceive heroes and narratives from the rich tapestry of African societies.

Described by Somto Ajuluchukwu, the founder of Vortex eight years ago, “Spirit Fiction” is a genre that breathes life into African mythologies, ancient histories, diverse cultures, languages, religions, and societal nuances. It is a celebration of the spirituality that resonates within every facet of African culture.

In a spirited conversation with The Guardian, Ekene Nwonye, the Creative Director for Vortex, shed light on the profound message “Hall of Spirits” aims to convey. In a departure from the conventional narratives often told by outsiders, Ekene expressed his frustration with the myriad misconceptions about Nigeria and Africa perpetuated by non-African storytellers.

Ekene stated that Vortex Comics, through the Hall of Spirits, is reclaiming the narrative and presenting a fresh perspective on African culture and heroes.

“We’re tired of others telling our stories. Vortex Comics has decided to create its own anthology,” he said, emphasising the need for Africans to be the architects of their own narratives.

Amidst the enchanting display of the exhibition, Ekene passionately outlined Vortex’s mission: to send messages of peace, love, and unity not only within Africa but globally. He advocates for collaboration, urging like-minded storytellers worldwide to join hands, break barriers, and transcend cultural frontiers.

“With the Hall of Spirit, we want to send a message of peace, love, and unity to the world. We want these stories to bridge cultures and resonate within Africa and beyond. It’s about shared humanity and the power of storytelling to connect us all,” Ekene noted.

One standout comic story from Vortex’s portfolio is “Black Rain,” a story deeply connected to African culture that also addresses the socio-political issues affecting Nigeria. This Afro-futuristic comic revolves around Esan, a planet besieged by a corrupt conglomerate, as seen through the eyes of a young child named Boubini, drawing inspiration from the tragic events faced by the Ijaw tribe in the Niger Delta, Nigeria.

A page from Black Rain“Light of Esan” / Credit: Vortex Comics

Ekene also revealed the arduous creative process behind “Black Rain”, saying that it involved extensive travel, research, and a commitment to addressing social issues. “It’s not just about creating comics; it’s about adding value to each individual by highlighting the complexities of our society.”

The Hall of Spirits exhibition stands as a testament to Vortex Comics’ dedication to pushing the boundaries of African storytelling. As attendees delve into the worlds of “The Zodiac”, a coming-of-age tale of a young warrior with spiritual powers linked to the 12 signs of the zodiac; “Land of Gods”, the story of a high-school student magically transported to a mythical land inspired by African folklore; and “Little Little Orishas”, an adventure tale about a young demigod enrolled in a school of gods, they embark on a journey that transcends fiction, unveiling the roots of African culture, mythology, and spiritual heritage.

Vortex Comics has not only created a universe of boundless imagination but has also opened a door to conversations about the most pressing issues. In a world hungry for diverse narratives, the indigenous comic company is not just telling stories; they are shaping a new era in the global comics industry, one panel at a time.