West African Peoples

West Africa is home to many peoples, including Yoruba, Igbo, Fulani and Kru communities. Their body arts include tattoos, raised scars, painting, hairstyles and jewellery.

Yoruba scar patterns could express identity and belonging as well as beauty. Some appear on carved figures, showing how the markings of living people also became part of art. Their meaning depended on the locality and wearer.

Igbo traditions included men's ichi facial scars and women's uli body painting. Related designs appeared on buildings and carved wood. The same creative skill could move from the skin to a decorated wall or door.

Other portraits show Fulani adornment and the distinctive forehead marks associated with Kru people. Cloth, hair and ornaments complete the picture. These styles developed within families and communities, while trade and movement brought new materials and ideas into the region.