Handicraft Galleries in Bamenda (North-West Region of Cameroon): An Overview of Two Case Studies

Handicraft galleries serve as venues for numerous cultural exchanges and creative pursuits, as well as spaces for intercultural dialogue. They are places where various forms of art and craft are stored. Handicraft galleries can be displayed openly or privately, allowing or restricting direct access depending on the owner’s preferences. They are also connected to the economic sector. This study aims to expand knowledge of handicraft galleries by focusing on several cases in Bamenda, the capital of Cameroon’s North-West region. The research employed a qualitative methodology, relying extensively on existing literature and field observation. The findings demonstrate that handicraft galleries adopt various approaches to serve the public through their roles. They function as educational institutions, cultural representatives, and economic units, aiming to engage both current and future generations.

Keywords: Handicraft, gallery, overview, values, institutions