In his book, (see Resources: Books and Articles) curator Richard Woodward writes that works of African art were not made solely for the display of their artistic forms. "Indeed, they were meant for show, but as symbols of authority or moral lessons, being used or worn in special events and settings, on altars and in shrines, in civil and religious ceremonies, in masquerades and festivals, and sometimes in daily life. These objects are instruments for communicating with spirits, for signifying a person's status in the community, for resolving conflicts, and for passing wisdom and traditions on to succeeding generations."

Works of art created within Mali's cultural groups have long been esteemed internationally, and objects from the Dogon, the Bambara, the Fulani and other Malian peoples are treasured collections in museums throughout the world.  The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is fortunate to have outstanding examples of art from Mali on display in its permanent collection exhibition, Spirit of the Motherland.