Sub-Sahara African Art Sara Crawford Hour 3

Sub Sahara Africa Below the Sahara Desert there are three main types of societies. Nomadic Tribes Sedentary Farming Cultures in the savanna and rainforest area. Ancient sophisticated Kingdoms of Nigeria and the Guinea Cost.

What is typical of Sub-Sahara African Art? Most African art uses geometric abstraction and has religious orientation. Much of African art also relates to ceremonies.

Nomadic Tribes Nomads did not produce large sculptures because they were always roaming and could not transport many material items. They made mostly masks that were in religions ceremonies.

Sedentary Farming Sedentary Farming Cultures had masks as well but also had sculptures. Masks were used in ritual ceremonies to embody spiritual forces. Page 127

Ancient sophisticated Kingdoms of Nigeria and the Guinea Cost. The art of this culture was very different from others in the fact that the art focused on the wealthy rather than the poor. Kingdoms began very early such as 500 BC when the Nok culture began creating terra cotta figures years later the Ife people began creating very realisitc human sculptures.

Contemporary African Art Picasso and Matisse were two artistes that were influenced bu the geometric abstraction of African Art. The art of Africa continues to reflect its history diversity and complexity. Images can be found on page 129

Akua ‘ba Doll 19th – 20th century, Ashanti Culture, Ghana. Wood, 11 3/4’” high. British Museum, London This is the only slide from Sub- Sahara African art Mr. Mosier said you must know.