Explore the Native Arts of Africa

African art is as diverse as its people and cultures. Colour in arts and craft abound in this diverse country.

The vast area of the Congo and Niger River systems produced art of consistent sculptural quality, but to the north and east the Moslem influence stifled the development of art.

Due to mainly forced migration, the less advanced natives of the jungles and the south produced very little art as a result of limited resources and a nomadic life.

Production of art was dependant on the materials available, wood was of prime importance as good quality stone in Africa was rare.

Logs were carved into milk posts, stools and headrests and hollowed out for canoes, but by far the most recognisable of their arts were the ritual figures and mask for religious and cultural ceremonies.

Next were the essential canes and fibres from sisal plants, creepers, palms and reeds which not only used for thatching but were also processed and used for ropes, clothes, fish traps and baskets, this was largely women's craft.

Iron and bronze has been used since early times and the smith was regarded with awe as his craft was surrounded by a mass of taboos and superstition.

Basic pottery was also made by women however the men set up shops in which they produced more specialised items. Life sizes terra-cotta figures have been found at Nok in Nigeria and at Ife.

The rulers of kingdoms, Nigeria, Benin, and Ife being the most influential, were all powerful and employed royal craftsmen who could work for no one else.

They carved mythical and historical designs to be installed on the altars of the Kings ancestors cast gongs and made images of to commemorate deceased members of the royal families.

There is great diversity in religion but a common thread occurs, most believe in a creator and for each tribe a pantheon of Gods for their particular culture and needs plus the ubiquitous belief in ancestor worship, these ideals have the greatest effect on art.

Most art is directed to the spirits themselves so that their powers can be channelled through it to influence the world of the natives.

There were spirits of the ancestors, spirits of the materials being used and the spirits sought after to be considered when creating art.

The arts produced are not merely curiosities; they play an important part in the beliefs and traditions of the people.

Arts - Crafts - Gifts - Posters

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