
Wood carvings have long been integral to the storytelling traditions of many cultures, serving as both artistic expressions and historical records. In indigenous communities, intricate carvings often depict myths, legends, and ancestral tales, passing down knowledge through generations. For example, Maori whakairo (wood carvings) in New Zealand narrate tribal histories, while West African masks and sculptures embody spiritual beliefs and communal values. These carvings are not merely decorative; they encode symbolic meanings, with patterns and figures representing moral lessons or cosmological truths. By transforming oral traditions into tangible art, wood carvings ensure cultural continuity, bridging the past and present. Their enduring presence in rituals, ceremonies, and daily life highlights their role as living storytellers, preserving identity and wisdom in a rapidly changing world.