Guro Art and Masks

The Guro tribe (also called Guru or Kweni) inhabit Baoule in the Ivory Coast, and are among the most prolific of African artists. 1906 marked a turning point in Guro civilization. Up to that point they had been protected from colonization by the dense forests which inhibited European encroachment. But in 1906 the French began to overcome these obstacles. The Guro reacted by becoming more nomadic. Living off the land and staying on the move, the Guro were able to evade complete domination briefly; but ultimately in 1912 they were colonized by the French. Since that time the Guro have turned to subsistence farming. Guro villages are not lead by a chief. A distinguished village elder may be designated to mediate disputes and serve as liaison to neighboring tribes; but that elder will lack the authoritarian powers of a true chief.
 

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