Where is the artist of the painting above originally from?
Julie Mehretu is originally from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She later moved to the United States, but she was born in Ethiopia.
What material was often used in African art to depict people of power?
How is art used in African initiation rituals?
Answers will vary. Art is used in the form of masks, dances, and songs to tell traditional stories and present important morals and values.
How is art used in African initiation rituals?
Art such as masks and sculptures is used to educate initiates, represent spirits, and mark the transition to adulthood.
Where is the artist of the painting above originally from?

What would be a good occasion to give a biiga doll?
To a young woman or new bride hoping to have children (for fertility and protection).
What African method of demonstrating status can be seen in the image above?

the dress of the king
What would be a good occasion to give a biiga doll?
Answers may vary. When a child is born or someone is trying to have a baby.
What do the patterns on the wall panels seen above symbolize?

The potential and vigor of the person being initiated.
What do individuals from the Ivory Coast believe about the spirit world?
They believe that the spirits of their ancestors watch over and protect them.
What African method of demonstrating status can be seen in the image above?

the dress of the king
In the bwami system of the Lega people, what did the masks do?
They taught lessons and represented moral values or proverbs.
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