Beyond Duality: The Inspiration

The symbolism of masks in Ghanian culture was introduced to us by Dr. Johnson. We were first introduced to the mask in a lecture and then were given the opportunity to create our own mask. This activity was done to pay respect and express what we have learned so far about Ghana’s culture. The mask introduced the idea of covering the pain. The mask represents hiding racial oppression that cannot be seen with the mask, However, underneath, and inside is pain.

I was inspired to paint my mask to show the two sides of African history and representation. I split the mask in half and each side showed a different aspect of Ghanian history. One side was filled with vibrant colors and traditional fabrics. The base of the mask was painted with bold colors and included gold foil. This side represents the bold and colorful side of African culture that I have observed in Ghana. The boldness of the colors and the gold represents the resilience that can be seen throughout the country. The other side was separated with cowry shells which used to be a form of currency. The shells show the greed associated with money that caused the pain and suffering which is represented on the other side. The other side of the mask represents the dark side of African history that was faced with enslavement and oppression. The red streaks represent generational scars that are engraved in history but may not be initially seen because they are masked with the vibrant culture that is presented. This side of the mask is primarily dark without any color. The eye lids of this side of the mask are covered with pieces of newspaper from The Daily Graphic, Ghana’s premiere newspaper. The newspaper on the eyes represents the view of Africans and African Americans by society and the media.

The purpose of my mask was to visually demonstrate the idea that the generational trauma of African enslavement lives on and has an impact on Ghanaians today. This message has stuck with me throughout the trip, and I wanted to include what I learned from the trip in my mask. Although it is presented that African culture is vibrant and joyous, the memory of enslavement is inscribed throughout generations and communities. Even after enslavement ended, those of African heritage experienced racism and discrimination. Despite the trauma Africans suffered of having their heritage destroyed, they remain resilient and embrace their beliefs in the culture.