Art and Power
In the Central African Savanna
March 1–May 31, 2009
See 60 central African sculptures whose original purpose was to mediate between the human and spirit worlds. For centuries, the Luluwa, Chokwe, Songye, and Luba peoples of the Central African savanna produced power figures which were adorned or filled with ingredients that were imbued with specific spiritual powers.
In most traditional form, these works are small and nonfigural and used in the context of the family—any manner of container might be used to carry the special substance. But as power was consolidated among kingdoms and chiefdoms over the course of the 19th century, larger and more ambitious sculptures were developed to serve entire communities. As works of art designed to carry power, they acquired dual function, embodying both spiritual and political qualities. From small, abstract containers to large and elaborate figures carved and decorated with great refinement, the exhibition presents a compelling array of these beautiful and fascinating works of art, many of which have never before been exhibited in the United States.
This exhibition was organized by the Cleveland Museum of Art. Support for education and public programs for Art and Power has been provided in part by members of the Friends of African and African-American Art and the African-American Advisory Committee. The Cleveland Museum of Art is generously funded by Cuyahoga County residents through Cuyahoga Arts and Culture. The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this exhibition with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.