African Arts page1

I’m captivated by the intriguing phenomenon of Asian African masks, and I’m eager to add a stunning piece to my collection for display in my pool area. African art holds great significance, and it’s important to approach it with cultural sensitivity and respect. It’s not necessary for Africans to travel to Europe to appreciate their own art; there are avenues to explore and appreciate African art within the continent itself. Collecting art is a labor of love, requiring dedication and effort to curate a meaningful collection.George Stove, the owner of a hotel in Bavaria, is a passionate collector of African art. In his hotel, known as Kooning’s II, he proudly exhibits a diverse collection of masks, sculptures, and nail fetishes from Nigeria. One of his favorites is the Barak Madonna Odessa, alongside sculptures that depict the Yoruba belief in the inseparable souls of twins. Collectors like George make great sacrifices to obtain specific pieces, often risking financial ruin for their love of art.

Dr. Shetler, an expert in African art, has traveled to Africa numerous times over the years. He has gained popularity as an auction expert, bridging the gap between America and Africa. The allure of adventure and traditional dances, which fascinated many, drew them towards Africa. The continent’s enchanting charm captivated the hearts of those who fell in love with its rich artistic heritage. Dr. Shetler’s most recent acquisition is a magnificent Nigerian mask, weighing 30 kilos, traditionally held above a dancer’s head with two sticks during trance-like performances.

In Zurich, a gallery specializing in antique sculptures and traditional African masks offers a glimpse into fascinating distant lands. For many, collecting art from Africa is not just a status symbol; it represents a desire for the native, the ancient, the exotic, and the mystical. People yearn for the darkness, magic, and unknown that these artworks embody. Crafty traders capitalize on this longing, using their knowledge to provide customers with compelling selling points. Catalogs play a vital role, adding provenance and increasing the value of the artworks, while gallery owners promote themselves and their collections through prestigious auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s.Africa ignited a deep thirst for adventure, captivating all who longed to witness its enchanting dances. These dances, sought after by everyone, were known as “grow dances.” Africa knew how to captivate hearts, becoming an object of affection. Philippe, an avid collector, recently acquired a neighboring mask from Nigeria. This magnificent mask, weighing 30 kilos, would be held above a dancer’s head by two sticks, a feat accomplished only in a state of trance.

Art collectors like Ali Khan are akin to hunters, driven by a childlike desire for a coveted toy. Once they possess it, they tuck it away. A Zurich-based gallery specializes in antique sculptures and traditional African masks, bringing forth captivating images of faraway lands, enriching everyday life. Collecting art serves as a symbol of status, but antique African art promises something more profound—a connection to a native, ancient, and extinct world, evoking a sense of mystery and allure.

Enterprising merchants leverage this fascination, using their knowledge to highlight selling points, catering to the desires of customers. Suddenly, a catalog gains significance, with added details of its origin, augmenting its value. The gallery owner promotes their establishment, whether it be a gallery, auction house, or an exclusive venue where art is showcased. Giants like Sotheby’s and Christie’s invest millions in marketing to ensure their names stand out in the art market, much like an impregnable fortress.

In this dance of commerce, Africa’s allure is both celebrated and exploited, as its richness finds its way into the hands of collectors and connoisseurs.