Introduction African masks imprisoned in a showcase or nailed to the wall of a gallery is certainly a dead object. The music, chanting, dancing, sacrifice and the full array of rituals that accompanies a mask brings it to life. This exhibition is focus solely on the artistic creativity that is present in a number of African masks.
African masks do come in a variety of shapes, styles and materials.
The uniqueness of each mask or style is a testament to the artistry of its region of originality. Although each mask was made for a particular purpose for the tribe, its style and craftiness was impacted by an unknown person or persons. It is this artistry that we celebrate in this exhibition. We might not know who they were, but their genius is evident in their works. Since most of the great works are not in the African continent, we invite you to a sampling of the artistry of African masks.