The Beninese people are a nation of artists. Court art, religious art, and utilitarian crafts coexist harmoniously.

In the heart of the city of Cotonou, there is the Centre for the Promotion of Crafts (CPA) where works of art of all kinds are sold.

In the center of the country, Abomey's crafts perpetuate the prestigious achievements of ancient Dahomey, where an essentially royal art was developed. The Gbannanmè region is renowned for its wood carvings. The Kétou and Porto-Novo regions are centers of Yoruba art.

The Guèlèdè cult is practiced by the Yoruba and Nago people of Benin. This Guèlèdè cult pays homage to the power of older women (whether living or not).

During the festivities of this cult, participants wear carved head-shaped masks, crowned with an elaborate hairstyle or a representation of daily activity as on the Epa helmets.

The craftsmen, grouped within the National Confederation of Craftsmen of Benin (CNAB), constitute a trade body which actively participates in the strengthening of the national economy. There are six (06) Chambers grouped into the Union of Interdepartmental Chambers of Trades of Benin (UCIMB).

The specialties: construction, food, metals and mechanical construction, plant fibers, textiles, clothing, leather and skins, art and decoration, installation, maintenance, image upkeep and repair; electronics and refrigeration, hygiene and personal care, are represented within the CNAB.