Sculptural Formalization of Social Stratification in Urhobo, Delta State, Nigeria

This study was carried out to examine the sculptural formalization of social stratification in Urhobo. Sample sizes of 160 respondents were randomly selected from the socio-political units Abraka, Agbaraha-Otor, Agbon, Egwu, Evreni, Oghara, Okpara, Orogun, Ughelli and Ughewrun. Data were analyzed using sculptural elements as mass, space, line plane, movement, scale and colours. Various cultural and social heritage associated with Urhobo, related to this research were employed for sculptural rendition. Inclusive are social status, dressing, scarification, ceremonial activities and some Urhobo traditional symbols. Studio presentation is directed to visually document various social cultural heritage formalization of social stratification in Urhobo. These were presented in naturalistic and stylized works, two and three dimensional composition. The study concludes that sculptors have not attempted to sculpt monumental and compositional forms reflecting social stratification in Urhobo.