The Arthur B. Steiman and The Paul and Mary Rosen collections of Central and West African masks serve as a rich tapestry, unraveling the intricate layers of spiritual symbolism embedded in these powerful artifacts.
These masks, often regarded as expressions of deities and spiritual forces, provide a glimpse into the profound theological and cosmological systems that operate beyond the confines of logic and rationality.
At the heart of these masks lies an unfathomable connection to the spiritual realm. Carved with meticulous detail and infused with symbolism, each mask becomes a conduit for divine energies and cosmic forces. The choice of materials, the symbolism of colors, and the distinctive features of each mask contribute to a narrative that transcends the physical world, inviting viewers into a dimension where spirituality takes tangible form.
In Central and West African cultures, these masks play a pivotal role in ceremonial rituals, acting as intermediaries between the human and spirit realms. They are not mere artistic expressions but vessels through which the unseen forces of the cosmos manifest. The exaggerated features, bold patterns, and intricate designs on the masks are not arbitrary; instead, they encode a language of spiritual significance, conveying messages to those attuned to the sacred narratives.
Furthermore, these masks are integral to communal practices that bind societies together. Through dance, music, and performance, the spiritual essence of the masks is brought to life, creating a collective experience that transcends individual perspectives. The rituals associated with these masks reinforce social cohesion and affirm the interconnectedness of the community with the spiritual forces that guide and protect them.
Both collections include masks originating from influential tribes such as the Chokwe, Kuba Kingdom, Bobo Fing, Ligbi, Yoruba, Ogoni, Dan Yakuba, Voltaic, Senufu, Baule, Songe, Fang, Bobo Bwa, Igbo, Kwele, Luba, Janiform, Guro, Mama People, Bete, Kulango, Lega, Lwala, and Punu, coming from countries like Nigeria, Congo, and the Ivory Coast.
Both collections also offer a diverse array of masks, each representing a unique facet of the spiritual landscape. From masks associated with fertility rites to those linked with ancestral veneration, the collection highlights the multiplicity of spiritual dimensions within Central and West African cultures. As viewers engage with these artifacts, they are invited to contemplate the intricate web of beliefs that underpin the spiritual worldview of these societies.
Symbols of Spirit – February 2024
CADA Curator: Ludlow Bailey
****ALL CONTENT / IMAGES USED WITH THE PERMISSION OF LUDLOW BAILEY AND THE CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN DIASPORA ART (CADA). FOR MORE INFORMATION, KINDLY VISIT: www.cada.us.