Global Art Research

The African Connection to India:

There exists between indigenous people of the globe many  cultural and traditional similarities.  Europeans during the colonial years brought many Africans to India for slave labor. Many were able to set themselves free within the boundaries of the country and very dense forest. These individuals are now known as Siddis. They speak local languages, practice local religions including Islam, Hinduism and Catholicism. Check out the link below for further information on this culturally rich connection.

http://www.kamat.com/kalranga/people/afro-indians/siddis.htm



These links below have wonderful information on African masks and mask making:

 
http://www.artyfactory.com/africanmasks/information/african-mask-functions.ht


http://www.penfield.edu/webpages/bgarza/index.cfm?subpage=75680