African Masquerades
The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) presents a landmark exhibition, New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations, which is opening April 4, 2025.
This extraordinary showcase brings together 13 head-to-toe masquerade ensembles created by four master artists from Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. The exhibition offers visitors a rare glimpse into the vibrant world of contemporary West African masquerade arts, where tradition meets innovation in a spectacular display of cultural expression.
Through the works of Chief Ekpenyong Bassey Nsa, Sheku "Goldenfinger" Fofanah, David Sanou, and Hervé Youmbi, the exhibition explores how modern African artists are revolutionizing masquerade traditions while honoring their cultural heritage.
Expanding beyond traditional museum presentations, the exhibition features groundbreaking 360-degree video footage, giving visitors unprecedented access to performances, studio visits, and artist interviews. This innovative approach allows audiences to fully appreciate the complexity and vitality of West African masquerade arts in both traditional and contemporary contexts.
Exhibit Details
- Dates: April 4 to August 10, 2025
- Tickets: Available at noma.org; Wednesdays are free for Louisiana residents
- Features: 13 complete masquerade ensembles, immersive video installations, and interactive elements
About NOMA and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden
The New Orleans Museum of Art, housing nearly 50,000 works, is Louisiana's oldest and most comprehensive art institution. The museum's Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden features almost 100 sculptures set within a stunning 12-acre landscape, offering visitors a unique art experience in the heart of City Park.
