In Makonde tradition, the mapiko dancer represents a spirit or ancestor visiting the community from another world. The mask hides the dancer's identity completely, and the costume covers every part of the body. The spirit character moves and dances in a unique way – spinning, leaping, and stamping in patterns that have been performed for many generations.
Mapiko performances happen at important community celebrations, including coming-of-age ceremonies where young people formally become adults in the eyes of the community. The masked dancer interacts with the audience, sometimes chasing people playfully or singling out individuals in the crowd. The whole village gathers to watch.
The masks themselves are remarkable works of art. Each one is carved by hand from a single piece of wood and may take days or weeks to complete. The features are often exaggerated – large eyes, a wide open mouth, dramatic expressions. Some masks represent specific characters that have been performed for hundreds of years; others are newly created by the carver.
Makonde carvings are collected in museums and galleries around the world. But for the Makonde people, the most important place for this art is in the village, during a performance, where the mask comes to life through the dancer's movement and the community's response.