AFRICAN ARTDefine, Describe, and Analyze Examples of African Art

I. “Traditional” African Art Forms

Masks Sculptures Textiles (fabrics)

II. No such thing as “art”? The creators did not see themselves as

“artists” There was no word for “art” in the

African languages Most museums collected artifacts from

Africa for their historical significance Not until the 1900s did art museums

begin collecting artifacts for their aesthetic value

III. Purpose of African Art The objects we regard as art were not

used or made for the purpose of being viewed as art pieces

Originally created for social, religious, or utilitarian purposes.

Almost all “traditional” African art that we see today was once classified as artifacts. What is the difference between ART and

ARTIFACTS???

IV. Culture and RitualThe artifacts served to illustrate different aspects of culture.

art museums gathered information about the culture and used them to understand the artwork.

V. Fabrics and Textiles Adinkra Cloth

Worn by the Asante Plain fabric painted with designs using

black dye and stamps. Represent proverbs Color meanings:

Red, Brown, and black: funerals and mourning White: joyous celebrations

VI. Masks African masks were not just for

faces…covered shoulders, neck, chest, and arms.

May represents spirits of ancestors Used for spiritual rituals and social

activities Funerals Initiations Entertainment

Anthropomorphic: depict humans

Zoologic: depict animalsComposite: both anthropomorphic and zoologic, usually depict myths or dreams Usually depict danger or the supernatural and used only among men

VII. Different types and elements Helmet masks: cover entire head Crest masks: cover only the top of the

head Face masks, forehead masks, and

shoulder masks cover each body part named. Part of the mask, attached to the rim

Rafia or cloth Animal fur, teeth, feathers, or antlers are often part of a mask

Amulets

Symbols used