As I’ve discussed previously, African American art is unique. African American art traces its roots from African slaves brought to the United States for labor. Slaves came to America equipped with traditions and skills that they attained from their homeland. African Americans have immensely contributed to American culture, but the contributions were unrecognized as a result of violence from slavery and racism. However, the oppression did not deter them as they went on to develop art and create literature that mirrored their experiences. One of the peaks for the artists was witnessed in the Harlem Renaissance, which is a literary period that focused on black people. Some of the art they came with include woodcarving, basket weaving, and metalwork. You can see their expertise in art in items such as clay vessels and hand-sewn quilts.
Comparison to other Ethnicities
Art lovers are awestruck by African American art due to its unique characteristics and designs that are a reflection of the diverse and rich history and culture of different African American roots and origins. The art is in the form of paintings, sculptures, dolls, and masks that people purchase to decorate their living spaces or add their art collection.
While comparing to art from other ethnicities such as the Latino, their art commenced as a nationalist venture in the 19th century. Its inspiration came from independence movements that happened when the 19th century started. For example, when creating visual arts, the artists were taught amateurs who were mainly foreigners, architects, or priests. This is contrary to African Americans who were less privileged, where they had to experience slavery.
Latino art took on the form of a travel catalogue where each piece of art was a reminder of where they have been. Artists had little history in the art culture of their people; hence they depicted their art out of their travel experiences. This has turned out to be significant, especially after the church in Mexico and other countries lost some of its property and its contents plundered; art by the travelers became the only source of documentation.
On the other hand, Hispanic art has a distinct style that has been transformed into various mediums in the art industry. However, this does mean that Hispanic art is devoid of creativity and ingenuity. Hispanic artists maintain traditions and break molds by adapting to current lifestyles and still keep the robust signature mode of their culture. Art enthusiasts appreciate Hispanic art, but people with Hispanic heritage appreciate it more deeply. Also, the works of art let the world know about Hispanic culture.
Unique Characteristics that distinguish African American Art
Lively Form –
African American art that depicts human beings is characterized by extended arms, legs, extended necks, and pointed breasts. These are some notable vigorous forms that describe this art, which represents power, vigor, and human boldness.
Stylized Practicality –
Different African American art pieces are made to look like human forms and sometimes merge animals and humans. However, the human art forms are not realistic but are in the form of stylized designs. For example, a doll that takes the form of a human being may have unequal body parts.
Geometric Figure –
A lot of African American art features geometric figures, patterns, and themes. For instance, when making a mask in an art form, the artist can use circles, curves, and ovals to bring out a more unified and striking effect.
Intricate Particulars –
This type of art is unique as it features fine craftsmanship where intricate details are emphasized with skill and precision. These details clearly distinguish African American art from other ethnicities.
Youthful Look –
A part of African American culture emphasizes on good health, physical strength, vigor, and youthfulness. This trait is traceable to earlier days before slavery while they hunted and built their villages and only the young and strong survived slavery.
Other ethnic groups have come to appreciate African American art as they have come to realize that the art is not just a wall hanging. It is an essential part of everyday life as it has meaning and principle that turns it into art. They do not create art for the sake of it but for having a deeper and more purposeful life that helps them better understand the world.
African Americans originated from different parts of Africa. This fact contributes to the creation of art that depicts various beliefs and culture concerning history, region, religion, and culture. The art that African Americans make is tied to their daily living. The type of material used on a piece of art depends on the people’s origin as the creation of art is a skill that is passed down to generations.
In conclusion, the purpose of art is to bring out ideas, status, beliefs, and the workmanship of a group of people. People from other cultures learn about the origin and history of African Americans through their art. Various platforms showcase African American artists such as Black History Month, which celebrates the history of African Americans. You can also find African American art in museums and art exhibitions near your location. A people’s art is an easy way to find out about their history and culture.