The Arts of Western Africa

Catalog description

Examination of the visual arts and cultures of western Africa, with an emphasis on specific countries and their respective cultures, including Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, and Sierra Leone. The course will include both historical and contemporary art forms, such as masks and masquerades, textiles, wood carvings/sculptures, and architecture. Contemporary works of art will also be discussed, with an emphasis placed on artists who are influenced by historical forms of African art (such as El Anatsui and Yinka Shonibare).