The Role of Art in African Society

The multiple roles that art plays in African communities are as diverse as their forms of patronage.

Social Role: One of the most important functions of African art is distinctly social. In fulfilling this role, it frequently depicts women as mothers, usually nursing or cradling their young. Men, on the other hand, are often presented both as elders, the traditional community leaders, and as successful warriors.

Political Role: Political control is another major concern displayed through art in Africa. Among the Kota, Pende and others, persons acting as community judges and policemen wear masks. A different type of social control is achieved by certain African architectural motifs. The Dogon of Mali and the Senufo of the Côte d’Ivoire carve elaborate doors that ritually protect the community food supplies.

Economic Role: Art in Africa also fulfills an important economic role. Among the Senufo of Côte d’Ivoire, delicately carved figures are used to encourage farmers in their difficult work. Here, daleu staffs, with bird or female imagery, are secured in the ground at the end of cultivation rows. These staffs serve as goals and trophies for the field-planting competitions.

Historical Role: An important historical role is also fulfilled in African art through its memorialization of important persons and events. In the powerful kingdom of Benin in Nigeria, elaborate relief plaques cast in bronze similarly carried images of important persons and events of the past, including battle scenes and religious ceremonies.