Dan's African masks range from naturalist to highly stylized. They represent men and women, male animals or a mixture of human and animal characteristics. Masks appear in contexts related to social control, political and judicial issues, peacemaking, education, competition and entertainment. The protruding cantilevered forehead, the protruding, protruding cheeks, the tubular eyes, and the large open mouth that once held the teeth are the attributes of a formidable male spirit.

Dan has commissioned artists to carve masks, but not often. Successful old masks have been preferred and have been used as long as possible. Identity and contexts of use have changed over time. As a result, an entertainment mask could become a reputable justice mask.