Intro to African Art

Question 1

Why is there so much overlap between African languages and culteral groups and country boarders?

Answer 1

Berlin Conference: Partitioning of Africa and donation of countries to western powers.
Because the African boarders were not created by African people, they were divided by European colonists.

Question 2

Oldest civilization in the world

Answer 2

Nok civilization that used Nok Terracotta, Carbon dating it to 200 CE.

Question 3

Importance of Masks in African culture

Answer 3

Zoomorphic and anthropomorphic, some naturalised some stylised. African artists do not always stick to strict proportions. When worn, the masque is worn with full costume (Masquerade) and as part of a ritual gathering. They are physical manifestations of ancient spirits as like many cultures, african cultures believe in reincarnation.

Question 4

What determines the Art Mediums used in Africa?

Answer 4

Climate and available resorces