Welcome
to
Ori Arts
Ori Arts is…
An Opportunity
to get what is inside of our heads, in our hearts and on our minds into the world for all
to see, feel and experience, through creativity
to free one’s self and discover one’s own destiny
to begin the process of healing
to learn new, yet ancient ways
to dance the steps toward a new tomorrow
Ori Arts is…
Your light
My light
Our light
shining brightly as one comes to know
and align with the artist within and around us
About The Artist
Background
Zena Cheza Oriolla a.k.a Rev. Dr. Mary Wedgeworth-Maakheru (and called "Mama O" by many a youth) is a multifaceted artist who uses her gifts and talents to inspire, entertain, educate and facilitate creativity and encourage the healing of the body, mind and spirit through the arts.
Oriolla is a performance and visual artist who uses story telling, comedy, poetry, mask making, textile art, movement and song in performances, presentations and workshops for audiences and students (from pre-kindergarten to seniors) in various genres and venues.
As a Certified Holistic Consultant, Oriolla understands there can be a therapeutic component to color, music, certain materials and mediums; and is often called on to provide uplifting activities and entertainment to individuals and groups in various institutions and facilities.
Ordained at the One Spirit Interfaith Seminary, Reverend Oriolla is an Interfaith/Inter-Spiritual Minister, and Clinical Chaplain,. who is also registered Marriage Officiant. Rev. Oriolla officiates a variety of services and ceremonies and assists people of all religions and spiritual beliefs, in creating beautiful memorable occasions.
Her teachers and mentors are numerous, but include: Dr. Joyce Duncan and Thelma Thomas (co founders of The Afrikan Folk Heritage Circle), Sri Chinmoy, Queen Afua, Diane Burke (co founder of One Spirit Interfaith Seminary), Dr. Llaila O. Afrika author of Afrikan Holistic Health, Audrey Lorde (former Poet Laureate of New York City) John Lewis (of the Modern Jazz Quartet).
Our Mission
Our mission is to facilitate and support children’s and adults’ discovery, exploration, and development of their creativity. Ori Arts also uses art as an expressive and receptive tool and vehicle to encourage and empower individuals and groups to be an active participant in their spiritual, mental, emotional and or physical healing process.
Our Values
Many cultures--ancient and present have written:
1. Know Your "Ori
In Nigeria, West Africa, there is a culture and people known as Yoruba. Ori is a highly important spiritual concept among them. The word Ori, literally means "head." It is how one perceives spiritual experiences and how a person’s destiny is laid out; as well as the path that one takes to fulfill that destiny.
“Ori” is also a given name, which means, “My Light” in Hebrew. It is similiar to the Yoruba definition, which expresses that which resides in the core of all beings’
consciousness and the
manifestation of All of the Universe- within.
2. "Strive for Balance"
The goal of life is to achieve a balanced character.
When one has a balanced character, one obtains alignment with one's Ori. This brings inner peace and self awareness.
3. "Communicate"
It is understood In many traditions-that human beings create art as an expression of a sacred energy within. Art is also a vehicle and tool for and of communication, which expresses the depths of an individual and reveals a person to themselves and to the world.
Artists need a space to dream, to create, to inspire and to be inspired. At Ori Arts, we understand this well, which is why we provide this space for our guests. All artistic expression is allowed in this magical Art Center where people come and create their art freely. All ages and levels are welcome, so please stop by today!