Art and Power at the DeYoung

Just got back from the Art and Power in the Central African Savanna show at the DeYoung in San Francisco. It's an exhibit of marvelous sculptures and masks from Central Africa - from the time of colonialism and before.

When I get to go to a show that's this wonderful, I like to bring a sketchbook and draw, it helps for focusing and concentration (although these drawings don't do the pieces justice).

(click to enlarge)

The masks in particular moved me with their combination of formal play and inventiveness (such delightful stylizations and exaggerations!) and their psychological, almost spiritual power. Some of them are actually a little bit scary, although neutered by their museum surroundings. Some of them have a serene calm to them, and others are just wild and creative.

It's well worth a visit, and runs to October 11th.