Why did traditional masks sculpture ceramics and other arts continue to be made in Africa during the early 21st century?

In the early 21st century, the production of traditional African art forms—such as masks, sculpture, and ceramics—persisted alongside contemporary artistic practices.1

A primary driver for the continued creation of these objects was the demand for tourist art intended for Western markets. This practice represents a long-standing continuity in the relationship between African artists and non-African cultures, echoing historical exchanges such as the creation of Afro-Portuguese ivories in the 15th century.1

While some regions have seen a shift toward industrially manufactured wares, particularly among town dwellers moving away from traditional fuel sources, pottery and other traditional crafts continue to survive in many rural areas. Furthermore, it is important to recognize that the categorization of these items as solely "traditional" often stems from external Western perspectives; in many African contexts, the creation of such works remains a dynamic process of artistic expression, innovation, and cultural significance.231