Zoomorphic masks
My work illustrates masks. These decorative elements are memories of different cultures in which people could transform also phisically and mentally.
Appearing of masks are usually abstracted and the creators often get ideas from the nature, sometimes they visualize special animals. This kind of zoomorphic masks also appears in the Senufo tribe’s culture. According to the tribe’s creation myth the creator spirit - named Kolokolo - first created five beings: the turtle, the crocodile, the chameleon, the hornbill and the snake.
The tribe often use the motives of these animals on their textil patterns, jewellery, and also on their masks. Apart from the mythological role, the characters of these animals have a special meaning too.
The chameleon appeares in god's role on different areas of life and represents knowledge and wisdom. The crocodile is the evil spirit. By wearing a crocodile mask the individual fights with the evil and finally expel it. The hornbill symbolizes fertility, and the snake can move between visible and invisible worlds. The motive of turtle appears mainly tribal jewellery, and it symbolises the second-sight.
