RELIGION IN SENUFO ART
Senufo communities have belief in a creator deity and have a strong belief in ancestors and nature spirits. One major concept of Senufo religion is the belief in the female ancestor called the "ancient mother" or "ancient woman". This female spirit is what acts as a guide to the Poro men's society. In addition to being initiation for men and protection of the community, the Poro men's society also upholds religious and historical traditions. In addition, the Sandango's women society is a woman's only association that act as diviners and communicates to spirits. For example, these women would keep in contact with the bush spirits in order to keep peace between them and the community, as they might be bothered with the hunting or farming.
In relation to art, art pieces are usually made with carvings that conjure fear and respect for the nature spirits. Porpianong are statues kept in the sacred forest where the last phase of the Poro initiation begins. It is called kasingele, which means the "first ancestor". It's alternate name, Porpianong, means "mother of the Poro child" and is a symbol of the authority of Poro elders. The Ancient Mother is, as stated, a spiritual guide to the Poro men. She symbolizes the birth of the adult male and represents the responsibilities that awaits him in the community.
In relation to art, art pieces are usually made with carvings that conjure fear and respect for the nature spirits. Porpianong are statues kept in the sacred forest where the last phase of the Poro initiation begins. It is called kasingele, which means the "first ancestor". It's alternate name, Porpianong, means "mother of the Poro child" and is a symbol of the authority of Poro elders. The Ancient Mother is, as stated, a spiritual guide to the Poro men. She symbolizes the birth of the adult male and represents the responsibilities that awaits him in the community.