AFRICA RISING
A juxtaposition of two cultures, one that is at the fore front of portraying the “perfect image” most of us have accepted or adopted versus the second culture which has taken a backseat for too long when it comes to accepting its own culture and more so being accepted and even adopted by other cultures.
What I have explored through these artworks while integrating exquisite, African masks, is the “wild idea” of a white girl going African. African masks were and are far from being just art, they are an outward identity of every African communities’ rites and culture.
A depiction of a 'typical white girl' wearing a varsity jacket. Behind her are African masks that symbolize an African identity.
Origin of mask: From the Fang tribe of Gabon.
Purpose: The mask was used by spriritual leaders during rituals to ward off evil spirits.
Origin of mask: From the Biombo people in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Purpose: The mask was worn during tribal rituals and circumcision ceremonies.
Origin of mask: From the Baluba tribe in Congo.
Purpose: The mask was worn by dancers during ceremonies; they would go into a trance and channel the peoples' ancestors.
Origin of mask: Punu mask from the people of Gabon.
Purpose: The mask was used to symbolise the spirit of ancestors and the afterlife.
Origin of mask: From the Biombo people in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Purpose: The mask was worn during tribal rituals and circumcision ceremonies.
Origin of mask: Bagle mask from the Dan people in Ivory Coast.
Purpose: The mask was worn during masquerades to entertain.