African Art and Aesthetics

Art historian Joseph Paul Cassar provides an introductory history to African art and aesthetics, addressing the terminology used when describing the art. Cassar highlights main concepts found in African art, including the flexed-knee motif and representations of maternity and fertility. He provides a close look at a variety of styles of masks, from expressive to abstract, executed in wood, ivory, and bronze. Cassar also discusses the challenges of studying African art, as well as its influence on modern European painters and sculptors. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)