The African continent, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse artistic traditions, has given birth to a wide array of artistic expressions. From the primitive or traditional African art that dates back centuries to the dynamic and evolving African contemporary art, the journey of African art is a reflection of the continent's history, societal changes, and the individual artist's experiences and perspectives.
Primitive African art, also known as traditional or tribal art, primarily includes sculptures, masks, textiles, and pottery created by indigenous tribes of Africa. These artworks were deeply rooted in the cultural, religious, and social practices of the communities. They were not merely decorative pieces but served specific functions in rituals, ceremonies, and everyday life. The artists were often anonymous craftsmen who adhered to traditional techniques and styles passed down through generations.
The themes of primitive African art were closely tied to the tribe's beliefs and customs. The artworks often depicted deities, ancestors, spirits, and natural elements, reflecting the tribe's spiritual beliefs and their connection with nature. The use of materials was also significant, with artists utilizing locally available resources like wood, clay, metal, and natural pigments.
On the other hand, African contemporary art is a broad term encompassing the works of African artists from the late 20th century to the present. This genre is characterized by its diversity, dynamism, and engagement with contemporary issues. Unlike primitive African art, contemporary art is not confined to traditional themes or materials. It includes a wide range of mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography, video art, and installations.
African contemporary artists, like Dallanges, often draw inspiration from their personal experiences, societal issues, and global trends. Dallanges, for instance, incorporates elements of his African heritage and childhood experiences in West Africa into his vibrant and abstract art. His use of gold leaf textures and depiction of pirogues, traditional West African boats, is a nod to his roots, while his abstract style and exploration of themes like freedom, resilience, and the human spirit reflect contemporary sensibilities.
While African contemporary art may draw on elements of traditional African art, it also engages with global artistic movements and ideas. It reflects the impact of colonization, globalization, and technological advancements on the African continent. Issues like identity, migration, urbanization, and political and social change are often explored in African contemporary art.
While primitive African art and African contemporary art both originate from the same rich cultural heritage, they represent different periods and perspectives in the evolution of African art. Primitive African art reflects the traditional beliefs, customs, and aesthetics of indigenous African tribes, while African contemporary art is a dynamic and diverse field that engages with both local and global issues. Artists like Dallanges embody this evolution, blending elements of their African heritage with contemporary artistic practices to create art that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
