Ìgbà m̀bájó

Ìgbà m̀bájó; onílù gbélùlọ
When I wanted to dance, the musicians dispersed.

Let's delve into the world of Yoruba wisdom with a captivating proverb: "Ìgbà m̀bájó; onílù gbélùlọ" (when I was ready to dance, the drummers dispersed). This proverb beautifully illustrates the importance of seizing an opportunity promptly. Picture this: a vibrant dance band arrives in your community, playing their hearts out. However, you hesitate to join in the fun. And when you decide to dance, the band unexpectedly packs up and leaves, a situation perfectly encapsulated by this proverb. 

Another Yoruba proverb compares to the above but with more severe consequences when one fails to take advantage of an opportunity. "If a terrible epidemic descends on a town, the town uses a terrible medicine to confront it." (Bí àrùn búbúrú bá wọlú, oògùn búbúrú la fí ń wò ó). If the town does nothing to stop the epidemic, it can become a massive disaster. 

The painting, a visual representation of the Yoruba proverbs, depicts three musicians returning home. The context of their return, whether after a successful performance or a missed opportunity, is left to the viewer's interpretation, adding a layer of curiosity and engagement to the piece.