Boy Becomes Man
Njogu Touray

Acrylic on canvas,
sand and metal
2003

29.5cm (h)
24cm (w)
72cm (including spear)

£ 325

Part of a number of works elaborating on male roles and the rituals associated with becoming a man. The structure is inspired by traditional masks worn in ritual masquerades.

To become a man, a Gambian boy must be circumcised. The older men teach the boys male secrets and knowledge; the emphasis is on bravery, on hiding the pain. A medicine man performs the actual ceremony.