The art of tribes from Africa is an indicator of their identity and culture. For many years, people of Africa have utilized art as a means of relaying their ideologies, norms, and society structure. Works of art from Africa are unlike other forms, which are solely created to be visually ornamented and pleasing to the eye; rather, they are pieces directly associated with their day-to-day living and spiritual activities.
They include masks, sculpture, fabric, pottery, beading, body painting, and carvings; it also employs natural materials like wood, clay, stone, fabric, and paints made from plant and mineral extracts. Material use in the artwork also carries great meaning mainly because it emanates from an environment which has certain resources.
Identity is one of the main subjects in African tribal art. Patterns, symbols, and forms can represent belonging, status, lineage, and religious ideas. Patterns and forms, for example, are symbolic and can represent the ancestor, nature, among others, but the wearing of the mask is restricted at particular stages of the ritual performance. This artifact contributes to the development of strong social cohesion within their social group as it embodies their social conduct and practices.
The tradition is maintained through artistic expression. Skills and methods are handed down from parent to child. The skills are often learned through observation and doing. This is very important, as it keeps knowledge of their cultures alive. Even when styles evolve, the core meaning and purpose of the art remain connected to tradition.
Tribal art supports spirituality as practiced by African tribes. Many art forms have been created for ritual purposes, including those associated with birthing, initiation, weddings, harvest ceremonies, and burial rituals. The masks and statues have spiritual powers and serve as mediums that interlink the spiritual and physical worlds.
Social living also influences the art of tribes. Artwork is not always done for personal expression. Artwork always fulfills group requirements. Various performances, such as religious events, involve sculpture, dress, music, and movement. Such an approach brings art together.
In African tribal art, there is also a close link between nature. Through animals, plants, and elements of nature, there is depiction of might, fertility, defense, and wisdom. The link between nature depicted in the art highlights environmental admiration and human beings as elements of nature.
In recent years, African tribal art has received recognition globally. This is because museums and collectors from other parts of the globe appreciate its visual strength and symbols. But it must be kept in mind that such art needs to be evaluated in terms of the culture in which it originated.
Today, artists in Africa continue to get inspiration for their work from these designs they got from their tribes, although they have adapted them to suit their subjects. This trend does not in any way undermine their cultural identity; it shows, on the other hand, that cultural identity is stronger.
Tribal Art in Africa: Identity and Tradition highlights the power of art whereby history, religion, and society are intertwined. It is clear in the reading of the text that Africa’s tribal art is a living history, which is very much alive since it is a part of identity, culture, and pride. Art acts as a means whereby history is kept alive, values are preserved, and heritage is maintained.
