African Masks Research Paper

African masks have influenced many well known artists and have been the origins of art. Pablo Picasso was inspired by the diverse art forms of the african mask. The patterns of African masks are unique and different that other types of art. These masks are usually used in ceremonies, weddings, and more. They represent the spirits of their ancestors and they also represent the bond between nature and mankind. Almost every detail on the African mask is a representation of their belief. The African mask I created was not just inspired by one African tribe, it was inspired by many. For example, I decided that I wanted my mask to have a very defined squared nose and I got this idea from the Lwalwa Mask. Also, I liked how the Bwa Plank Mask had a lot of geometric designs so I chose to add some of those designs onto my mask. I decided to incorporate feathers into my mask. Lastly, I was inspired by the Woyo mask to add spots of different colors. Woyo masks usually contain spots of different colors such as
After I had done that, I decided that I wanted my mask to be more three dimensional so I chose to make the nose my my mask out of green clay. I made the lips of my mask out of clay as well because clay was often used in the process of making original African masks. I also made a border around the eyes of the mask using silver spots and clay target like designs. The colors of the mask mash together to create a symbolic mask that represents the cultural aspects of Africa. Creating this mask helped me to be more open to the contributions of other culture in society today. The mask also opened my eyes to the importance of African culture and it helped me to better understand. I realized that most of the things I know about today, originated from Africa. The process in creating this mask was a real eye opener for me and it changed my viewpoint on art, music, and even