Study Notes: Traditional African Art vs Western Traditional Art

African Traditional Art

• Themes and Subjects:

  • The art focused on the spiritual and natural world
  • Art included depictions of ancestors, deities, animals and nature
  • There is a great emphasis on community and social roles

• Materials and Techniques:

  • A great use of materials such as wood, ivory, clay and metal
  • Techniques include carving, weaving, beadwork and pottery
  • Often functional and used in rituals and ceremonies

• Styles and Characteristics:

  • Forms are abstract and stylized
  • A great emphasis on symbolic representation
  • Use of patterns, textures and vibrant colours

• Cultural Significance:

  • Integral to daily life, ceremonies and rituals
  • Reflects social, political and religious beliefs
  • Passed down through generations with a strong tradition

• Preservation:

  • Art is not preserved as it is usually buried after a ritual
  • Most artworks are made from feathers, beads, seeds and animal skins which decay or disintegrate

Western Traditional Art

• Themes and Subjects:

  • Focus on humanism and the natural world
  • Depictions of historical events, mythology, religious scenes and portraits
  • Emphasis on individuality and realism

• Materials and Techniques:

  • The use of materials such as marble, bronze, canvas and oil paints
  • Techniques include sculpture, fresco painting and stained glass
  • The art is often created for aesthetic purposes and patronage

• Styles and Characteristics:

  • Forms are realistic and proportionate
  • A great emphasis on perspective and depth
  • Use of light and shadow, and a wide range of colour palettes

• Cultural Significance:

  • Often commissioned by the church, state or wealthy patrons
  • Reflects philosophical, religious and historical narratives
  • Documented through written records and art history

• Preservation:

  • Preserved in galleries and museums
  • Art is expected to last for a long time and must be preserved for future generations