African Art

The African art is passed down from father to son through generations of the family. It is a respected position within the community it is the job of the craftsmen to provide masks in the ritual ceremonies. Originally it was viewed naive by the west, but with a strong impact, visually. Patterns were usually painted or carved, they were symmetrical or geometrical. Any form of pattern would usually work, zigzag, parallel lines, spirals etc. They are often used to differentiate between male and females. Sometimes marks are made on skin and tattoos. They can often represent social status within the community. African masks can be made out of a variety of materials some is wood, bronze, brass, copper, ivory. Most are made of wood for two reasons. Trees are everywhere in the forest and carvers believe that the tree has a spiritual being. Before a tree is cut down a sacrificed may be offered to show respect, this ritual is common within the land. Masks are coloured with dyes and pigments. On rare occasions sacrificial blood is splashed on the mask. The tools used to make the carvings are passed down through generations. The tools are often made of wood, once again to represent the oneness with nature. Artists such as Pablo Picasso and Andre Derain, were inspired by the bold designs and often based there works on it. Many African art pieces are hung in museams, however that was not how they were meant to be viewed originally. They should be seen as part of rituals and events within the community.