Calixte Dakpogan was born in 1958, in Pahou, Benin. Surrounded by a family of blacksmiths, the traditon carried over to him. Since the was plenty of junk yards in Porto Novo, Dakpogan had endless resources. He started to use scavenged car parts to create standing figures, with the help of his brother Theodore. The brothers earned themselves a commission, to create 100 works for Ouidah in 1992, This was the Fisrt International Festival of Vodum Arts and Cultures. There work remains on permanent display.
Dakpogan uses metallic and plastic to create anthropomorphis figures and masks. His mask, have unique forms, shapes and even adds funky colors.
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Ambassadeur
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The teeth made of different size locks, is really unique. Some of the materials he used, I can tell what they are, like the eye seems to be a tire and a calculator inside the eye.
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Ferme ta gueule
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The Mask below is my favorite, Calixte Dakpogan collaborated with Romuald, the next artist im going to discuss on this Mask. What seems to be a can or old cup, has been transformed into a figure, showing emotion. I love the color and how it all molds together. The shape of the mouth is interesting, really helps shape the nose.
Romuald Hazoume also has some amazing works. I really like how artist use they culture in their art. I haven't been able to travel all over the world, so its interesting to see how they live, and that being transformed in to art.
Hazoume was born in 1962, in Porto Novo. Hazoume is of Yoruba origin, growing up in a Catholic family. He began working in the 1980's creating art from discarded plastic containers and gasoline caninsters. Turning these objects in to crafted masks.
Unlike Dakpogan's masks, which have a lot going on, Hazoume has a simplistic approach. The object that shapes the mask, is more distinct and easy to distinguish the item.
I like the different hiar styles, amongst the masks, each one has their own different facial expressions. I like both of these artist equally
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