African Art/Artifacts in the Cycle of Life

Catalog description

This course examines those items known as African Art, when referenced by non-African societies. It explores the difference between art and artifacts in reference to this form of material objects used in traditional African societies. These items, that decorate our walls and knick-knack shelves, and are displayed in European museums as art pieces, are really artifacts, carriers of the varied cultures of traditional African societies. Students explore the rationale for their creation, as well as their use in those societies. Students learn how these items influenced and became the basis for non-representational schools of art created by European “masters.” Students examine the role collectors of art forms played in the acceptance of African art/artifacts. In addition, students explore the actual cultural use of these items as well as how their use and form differ by kinship group and region.