PORTRAIT 7 - SPIRITS IN DISGUISE PROGRAMME FIVE

Seeks to exploit the visual effect and rich variety of Masquerades and masks among many Nigerian peoples. The variety of artistic styles and costumes – raffia, palm fronds, textiles – is explored for evidence of inter-group relations and trends of historical change.

Similarly, the programme examines the significance of masquerades in the different cultures. In particular, the connection between masquerades and “ancestor worship” is highlighted.

This is the widespread belief that dead ancestors continue to exist on a different physical and spiritual plane where, if properly related to, they continue to watch over, and to guide the living in their daily life. Masquerades are therefore the disguise of ancestors in their seasonal visits to the physical world.

Thus the programme focuses both on masquerades and ancestors, beliefs and practices, concepts and visual images.

Igbo Maiden-Spirit Maskers - Josh Peter

Source: peterartsofafrica.weebly.c...