From the moment of their first known contact with the West, in 1471, the Akan people of Ghana have been recognized for their rich and captivating culture. In particular, the Akan can boast a vibrant artistic tradition of visual forms including, among other things, textiles, sculpture, gold and silver jewelry, and diverse styles of self decoration. Yet, it is their distinctive blending of art and philosophy that has raised the Akan to the ranks of Africa's most accomplished artists.