Research: African Art

After my chat with Phil I am finally sure about my direction. My animation will still be based on a pop up book but with a slightly different style. So I have decided that my animation will work like a sort of awareness for Uneducated parents in Africa, mothers in particular. The main theme will be vaccination (possibly for malaria) which will encourage mothers to immunize their children and give them a better future.

After a small research I've noticed there are some certain characteristics about African art that makes it so distinctive:

• Vivid Colours (Bright Red and Yellow, Black and Blue)
• Emphasis on the Human Figure (Elongated figures with long limbs)
• Visual Abstractions
• Non Linear Scalings
• Rough Edges in Sculpture (Cubism)
• Emphasis on the Bright Background (Figures working like a foreground)
• Personified Nature

 "The African continent has produced a great diversity of art from prehistoric times to the present day. In many instances, art production has been related to ritual or tribal ceremonies, as well as serving more secular decorative functions, but it is not always easy to determine the function of a particular work. It is also problematic to label as 'art' the productions of African craftspeople who frequently considered their work as an essential part of secular or religious life. In many tribes, the artist had a high status, but the artist would not necessarily have been the equivalent of the western fine artist who relied on patronage or the marketplace to regulate his or her production."

 I also came across this South African Tribe called Ndebele. Their culture is filled with artistic elements, with bright colours and shapes decorating their homes, clothing and craft work. Their style have influenced a lot of fashion designers and interior architects.

"Many traditions survive in KwaNdebele, including the painting of huts in colourful geometric patterns. The painting is generally done by the women, and draws inspiration from the intricate beadwork that many wear, with bright polygonal patterns. There is often a modern influence as well – telephones, aeroplanes, cars and swimming pools can all appear, usually reflecting the aspirations of the artist. Weaving is also common, with dried grass being used to make necklaces and bracelets, as well as mats."