Senegal

102 Senegal Djibril Diop Mambety also has had a major impact on Senegalese moviemaking. He was a director, actor, composer, poet, and speaker, loved and admired by critics and audiences all over the world. His work was highly experimental for its time.

MODERN LITERATURE Senegalese people have been important contributors to literature. Léopold Sédar Senghor not only was president of the Republic of Senegal from 1960 to 1981; he also is also Africa’s most famous poet. A cofounder of the Negritude cultural movement, he is recognized as one of the most significant figures in African literature. His poetry abounds with imagery and contrasts the lushness and wonder of Africa’s past with the alienation and loss associated with colonization and assimilation into European culture.

In addition to Leopold Sedar Senghor, several authors have made major contributions to twentieth-century Senegalese literature. They include Birago Diop, Ousmane Socé, Alioune Diop (who founded the review Présence Africaine), Sheik Anta Diop, Boubacar Boris Diop, Mariama Bâ, and Ousmane Sembene.

ARTS AND CRAFTS Each region of Senegal has its own traditional crafts, and the country is famous for its talented artisans, who can be found in the major markets, creating and selling their wares.

Antique beads and large amber necklaces, traditionally worn by the Peul women, can be found in the markets and urban antique shops.

The blacksmiths constitute the artisan group that traditionally made tools, jewelry, and other items from iron, gold, and other metals. Today, this group makes exquisitely crafted gold, silver, and bronze jewelry. Baskets, pottery, and handwoven fabrics with intricate patterns are recognized crafts. Senegal markets and craft stores offer a colorful array of locally printed cotton fabrics used for traditional and modern clothes.