Disney Epcot

One piece, an intricately carved figurine from the West Atlantic coast, has mythological roots. Some Africans carved such figurines when they had a problem, and, believing that problems had supernatural causes, filled the little statues with soil, herbs and other offerings.

Meanwhile, the contemporary works continue the story of African expression by bringing ancient African themes into modern work. Just as African art influenced Picasso and Matisse, these artists are clearly influenced by their artistic ancestors. One example is artist Willie Cole's "Sport-500 TJI Wara," which uses red, blue and yellow bicycle parts to form a headdress of sorts. Exhibited side-by-side with a 19th century carved Antelope headdress from the Western Sudan, the two pieces are clearly similar in form and idea. "If you're an artist, it's only natural that you'd incorporate elements of other artists into your work," said Lava Thomas, another contemporary artist with pieces in the show. "There are a lot of formal and conceptual relationships between African art and (contemporary) artists. . . . We've been making it part of our visual vocabulary for a long time." Another powerful piece is Howard's "A Salute to Sojourner: Still Waters Run Deep." The assemblage includes a first edition of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," a wooden child's foot and an image of an alligator. The piece pays homage to 19th century slaves who escaped on the underground railroad. The show is designed to introduce people to African art and culture, and curators clearly sought to make sure the show was accessible to everyone -- even those who have little or no knowledge of art. Detailed captions and information panels accompany each piece, helping people understand the nuances and significance of each piece. "I hope people say `Wow,' " said Dr. Lizzetta Lefalle-Collins, the curator for this exhibit. "I hope they want to see more (African art) and go back to visit museums at home."

The pieces in this show were amassed by private art collectors Paul and Ruth Tishman in the 1960s, with many acquired during visits to sub-Saharan Africa. Disney acquired the Tishman collection in 1984.

There are more than 500 pieces in the collection; other pieces are exhibited in museums around the world.

The new gallery is the sixth exhibit hall in the World Showcase in Epcot. Other galleries are located in the China, Japan, Morocco, Norway and Mexico pavilions. All six galleries showcase museum-quality pieces of original art.

by Rebecca Mahoney  found at www.theledger.com/