About
Ordehlay societies express the political, social, and economic complexities of urban Sierra Leone—specifically of its capital, Freetown. The work of curator Amanda Maples posits that Ordehlay is a particularly powerful expression of the medium of masquerade, which is often incorrectly understood only in a rural, historical context. Although they have since become multigenerational, Ordehlay societies emerged in the 1960s as youth societies, engaging masquerade to explore political, social, and cultural discourses. This mask depicts US president John F. Kennedy riding a zebra. While JFK never visited Sierra Leone, he did make a statement of support and congratulations upon the country’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1961 and met with numerous African leaders as independence movements succeeded across the continent. This commitment to building relationships on the continent was celebrated by many, particularly in a growing city like Freetown.