Igbo Masks Purpose Masks are usually made of

Igbo Masks

Purpose • Masks are usually made of wood and/or fabric • Namely: – social satires – sacred rituals (for ancestors and invocation of the gods) – initiation – second burials – public festivals

Diversity • Because of their tribal diversity, Ibo people have embraced a great variety of beliefs and art styles from neighboring tribes. • The wide variety of cultural influences from regional tribes creates rich cultural diversity, as well as diversity of masks

Maiden Masks • Represents the spirits of deceased maidens and their mothers • Symbolizes beauty and peacefulness • Common characteristics found on the masks are- – finely sculptured thin and small well-placed women's features, which are accentuated by tattoos – A large and elaborate headdress

It’s Your Turn! • Using your blank mask sheet, create a maiden mask that represents a special female in your life. If you’re a female, you may make a mask for yourself. • Refer to the characteristics of Maiden Masks on the previous slide, as well as the photographs on the next slide to help you. • Be sure to color or lightly shade your maiden mask, and briefly explain who you chose to represent and why.