Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Arts & Craftwork
West Africa's artistic heritage, which encompasses traditional sculptures, masks,
striking textiles and jewellery, is tied very much to the land and its people. Most such
works were, in their original form, representations of the natural and spirit worlds.
The creation of these arts and crafts is often the preserve of distinct castes of black-
smiths and weavers who rely on locally found or produced materials and many pieces
still carry powerful meaning for West Africa's diverse peoples.
Some art historians believe that one of Picasso's most famous paintings,
Les Demoiselles d'Avignion,
depicts wo-
men wearing ceremonia l Dogon masks.
