African Art

African art has played a significant role in the culture and history of the world. It goes back into the mists of time, with earliest examples being figures of people and animals carved into rocks. Its distinguishing characteristics and inspirations have influenced many artists to adapt their own interpretations of the art in their own time period. There are thousands of different ethnic groups in Africa. African art has largely widespread characteristics which make it …

…by the people of Kongo in DRC. The magical powers of the figures are activated by driving nails or blades into them. Another significant indication of status and beauty was the scarification of the body. The Chokwe, Lunda, and other groups in northern Zambia, northern Angola, and southern DRC make a series of masks for use during initiation rites. Performances with these masks serve to educate the boys about their social responsibilities as adult males.