Dance Mask with Bird Totem c. 20th century

This Dance Mask with Bird Totem was created by Ngavimeli using natural fibers. Masks like these are not mere objects, they embody the spirits and histories of the peoples of the Sepik River region in Papua New Guinea. Imagine the cultural context in which this mask would come alive through dance and ritual. These performances are integral to the community's identity, social structure, and spiritual beliefs. The mask’s bird totem represents the interconnectedness between the human and natural realms, and the respect for the environment. These objects are not frozen in time, but continue to evolve with the needs and creativity of the artists and communities who create them. They challenge traditional museum narratives by highlighting the agency and artistry of Indigenous cultures. This mask is a reminder of the power of art to connect us to different ways of knowing.