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Hundreds of pieces of authentic sculpted African art and a rare
ceremonial mask towering 16 feet add to the cultural splendor and
mystique of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
The art not only adds to the beauty of the resort but also tells
stories about the relationship between man and animal, enriching
a theme ever-present throughout the resort, according to Mary Hannah
and Charles Davis, art consultants for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
“We want people to have just as much a learning and visual experience
inside the resort as they do outside looking from their balcony,”
Davis said. “We want them to be so excited that they will want to
wander through the resort and read and learn.”
From most balconies and other areas throughout the resort, guests
experience spectacular close-up views of animals on the savannah.
Inside, sculptures and carvings tell stories of man as predator
and prey, of companionship and interdependence between man and animal,
and how the domestication of animals has made life easier and emotionally
richer for man.
The art is accompanied by narrative to help guests understand the
various relationships between man and animal.
The art collection helps familiarize guests with Africa the continent.
Guests see the diversity of the countries and how the art varies
by region.
“Photographs throughout the resort are designed to give life to
the art on display,” Hannah said. “Guests will learn the meaning
of the pieces. They’re more than art objects -- they’re made to
be worn, to be danced, to be used in daily life.”
“The idea is to show that Africa is a vast continent full of gifted
and culturally diverse people,” Davis added.
Some of the sculptures include:
A man
and woman representing the Lobi people, juxtaposed with a male and
female antelope from Mali.
A Guro
mask from the Ivory Coast that is part of a series that represents
man’s interdependence with animals. The mask is part animal with
horns yet it has the face of a human.
A huge
elephant mask with a chicken-feathered cape illustrates not only
the power of animals but also the power of man.
A head
crest in the shape of a domestic chicken represents the domestication
of animals by man.
Igbo Ijele Mask
The breathtaking Igbo Ijele (pronounced e-bo e-gelay) mask, which
is displayed in the lobby of the resort, is a stunning example of
African art on a grand scale. The Ijele, created by the Igbo people
of Nigeria, is a massive creation that stands about 16 feet tall
and is eight feet wide.
The vivid colors and complex design represent all aspects of the
Igbo life. The Ijele -- the largest mask in sub-Saharan Africa --
is “danced” by a single man hidden within. Appearances are rare.
The Ijele is only danced every 10 to 25 years, at important events
and celebrations. No other Ijele is known to exist outside of Igbo
land.
The Ijele that graces the lobby was created and danced specifically
for export. The Igbo people, Davis notes, decided it was important
for people to learn about their culture.
While the artwork is for viewing only, traditional textiles and
basketry are available for purchase. Guests can also find intriguing
books and unique arts and crafts.
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