ARTH 214(S) Arts of Africa (Same as Africana Studies 214)*
A comprehensive introduction to the visual and performing arts of sub-Saharan Africa from prehistoric times to the present. Special emphasis will be placed on rock art, painting, sculpture, architecture, pottery, masking and body adornment, as well as the various ways in which their forms, styles, functions and meanings have been shaped by environmental, cultural and historical forces. Because it focuses on art in context, while, at the same time, acquainting students with different methodological approaches, the course will benefit Art History students as well as others whose disciplines require them to make informed cross- cultural analyses or comparisons. The ultimate goal is to equip students with the skills necessary for interpreting visual forms, in general, and for exploring the cultural ramifications of African art, in particular.
Format: lecture. Requirements: the course is open to all students; no background in African art is needed. Although it is essentially a lecture course, some time will be set aside for questions and answers or class discussions based on the lectures or assigned readings. Active participation in class discussions is required. Two short tests and a final exam will be given. In addition, students will submit a short term paper of approximately 10-12 pages in length on a topic relevant to the course. Graduate students will submit a longer paper of approximately 20-25 pages.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 25 (expected :18). Preference given to first-years and art majors with permission of instructor. This is an undergraduate course, though interested graduate students can register with permission of instructor.
Hour: LAWAL