Traditional African art: forms, styles, and cultural significance

Traditional African Art

Africa as a continent houses many varieties of different tribes and traditions. These entail a variety of different styles in art and culture. Art and culture for African tribes are closely intertwined. The most prominent art forms emanating from Africa include sculptures and masks. These relics vary in materials and form according to the tradition and purpose for which they are made.

The most prominent sculpted works are from the Niger and Congo River basins. Sculptures from these areas are made primarily from wood. North African works are strongly influenced by the Islamic tradition of the Middle East, whereas south of the Sahara, styles are more African in a localized sense. Like African masks, sculptures are influenced by socio-political, racial, linguistic, ecological and geographical factors. The Ibomari used sculpture mainly for home decorations, while Congo sculptures had a deeper meaning. Congo people used sculptures to commemorate, honor, and solicit help from the deceased.

Masks played an important part in all aspects of tribal life. Some masks were made primarily for political purposes, to show the status of various persons, or for religious and ritualistic purposes. This is the most common traditional African art form. Various materials are used for the masks, including wood, bronze, or feathers.

The Yoruba community for example was extremely artistic, producing wood, bronze, terra cotta and iron sculptures, masks and other tribal ornaments. Masks were used for the purpose of entertaining senior women and honoring deities associated with witchcraft.