African Art Patterns

African art patterns have long fascinated and captivated

people around the world. The intricate designs, vibrant
colors, and rhythmic compositions found in African
patterns hold deep cultural significance and provide a
glimpse into the rich heritage of the continent.

African cultures have a keen eye for observing and

incorporating patterns into various aspects of their lives.
From decorated houses and clothing to hair braids and natural elements like leaves,
trees, and animal markings, patterns are woven into the fabric of African societies.
The recognition and appreciation of patterns extend beyond their artistic value and
are intertwined with cultural expression and identity.

A striking feature of African art patterns is their inherent rhythm. Just as music and
dance are integral parts of African culture, patterns embody a rhythmic quality that
echoes the heartbeat of the continent. The repetition of shapes, lines, and motifs
creates a sense of movement and harmony. This rhythmic nature is deeply rooted in
African traditions, where patterns are not static entities but living representations of
cultural narratives, beliefs, and values.

African art patterns can be broadly categorized into two main types: geometric and
symbolic. Geometric patterns encompass a wide range of shapes, including
diamonds, triangles, zigzags, chevrons, circles, and waves. These patterns showcase
the precision and mathematical precision often found in African art. On the other
hand, symbolic patterns incorporate natural or man-made motifs that carry
cultural, historical, or spiritual significance. Cruciforms, stars, mosaics, flowers, and
trees are just a few examples of the symbols used in African patterns to
communicate knowledge, values, and ancestral stories.

Patterns hold deep cultural and historical significance in African societies. They are
vehicles for preserving and transmitting knowledge, as well as conveying social,
spiritual, and political messages. African art patterns can be found in various
aspects of life, including architecture, functional objects, adornments, artifacts, and
textiles. For example, patterned architecture reflects the identity and beliefs of a
community, while beaded items, baskets, carved objects, masks, and textiles like
Kente cloth, Kuba cloth, and Shoowa cloth exemplify the rich diversity and
symbolism of African art patterns.

African art patterns are intricate designs, shapes, and motifs that are commonly
found in various forms of artistic expression in African cultures. These patterns
often carry cultural and symbolic meanings and are used to communicate
knowledge, values, and history.

Each pattern carries its own unique significance, reflecting the diverse cultural
landscapes and artistic traditions across the continent. By exploring and
appreciating these patterns, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound
connections between African art, culture, and the human experience.

African art patterns have gained popularity in contemporary design and can be
integrated into various creative fields. In interior design, you can incorporate
African patterns through textiles, wall art, and decorative accents. In fashion, you
can draw inspiration from African patterns to create unique clothing and
accessories.
Further Reading…..
African art patterns can be broadly classified into two types: geometric patterns
and symbolic patterns. Geometric patterns consist of shapes like diamonds,
triangles, zigzags, chevrons, circles, and waves. Symbolic patterns incorporate
images and motifs with cultural and historical significance, such as cruciforms,
stars, mosaics, flowers, and trees.
African art patterns hold great cultural significance in African societies. They serve
as a visual language through which stories, traditions, and beliefs are conveyed.
These patterns can denote social status, convey spiritual powers, and represent
cultural messages and concepts.
African art patterns are incorporated into various aspects of African life. They can
be found in architecture, functional objects like baskets and pottery, adornment
such as jewelry and body art, artifacts like masks and carvings, and textiles such as
Kente cloth, Kuba cloth, and Shoowa cloth.
The preservation of African art patterns is crucial in safeguarding cultural heritage.
Traditional pattern-making techniques are often passed down from one generation
to another, ensuring the continuity of these artistic traditions. Efforts are made to
document, protect, and promote these patterns through educational programs,
cultural initiatives, and museums.
Creating African-inspired patterns is a wonderful way to engage with African culture
and express creativity. Observe the rhythmic nature of African patterns, use bold
colors, incorporate symmetry and repetition, and let your imagination guide you in
designing unique patterns that pay homage to African art.
There are several resources available to learn more about African art patterns. Visit
museums and art galleries that exhibit African art, explore books and publications
dedicated to African art and culture, attend workshops or classes on African
pattern-making techniques, and engage with online platforms and communities
that focus on African art.
While African art patterns have their roots in African cultures, their influence has
transcended geographical boundaries. They have inspired artists and designers
around the world.
Geometric Patterns:
Geometric patterns form the foundation of African art, showcasing a mastery of
symmetry, precision, and mathematical principles. They feature a wide range of
shapes and lines, creating visually striking compositions. Here are some of the
prominent geometric patterns found in African art:
Diamonds: The diamond shape is a recurring motif in African art, symbolizing
wealth, power, and unity. It is often used to create intricate tessellations and
symmetrical arrangements.
Triangles: Triangles represent a variety of concepts in African cultures, including
stability, harmony, and spirituality. They are commonly used to construct pyramidal
structures and symbolic representations.
Zigzags: Zigzag patterns evoke a sense of energy and movement. They can be seen
in various African art forms, such as textiles, pottery, and architectural elements,
symbolizing dynamic forces or the journey of life.
Chevrons: Chevrons are V-shaped patterns that often convey directional meanings,
such as movement, progression, or protection. They can be found in decorative arts,
textiles, and body adornments.
Circles: Circles are universally recognized symbols of unity, eternity, and wholeness.
In African art, circles are used to represent the cycle of life, celestial bodies, and
community connections.
Waves: Waves symbolize the flow of water, which is essential for life. African artists
skillfully incorporate wave-like patterns in their works to represent the vitality,
adaptability, and transformative power of water.
Symbolic Patterns: Symbolic patterns in African art go beyond geometric shapes
and delve into the realm of cultural symbolism, mythologies, and spiritual beliefs.
These patterns are rich in meaning and often serve as visual representations of
ancestral wisdom and cultural heritage. Here are some examples of symbolic
patterns in African art:
Cruciforms: Cross-like patterns or cruciforms are prevalent in African art,
symbolizing spirituality, balance, and the interconnectedness of the physical and
spiritual worlds.
Stars: Stars represent guidance, protection, and celestial forces. They are commonly
used in African art to convey a sense of divinity, destiny, or the presence of
ancestors.
Mosaics: Mosaic patterns in African art consist of intricate arrangements of smaller
elements, creating visually stunning compositions. They symbolize unity, diversity,
and the interconnectedness of different elements in the world.
Flowers: African art often incorporates floral motifs, representing beauty, growth,
and regeneration. Floral patterns can be found in textiles, pottery, and body
adornments, infusing the artwork with vibrant energy.
Trees: Trees hold immense symbolism in African cultures, representing strength,
wisdom, and the interconnectedness of life. Tree patterns in African art convey a
sense of rootedness, continuity, and the cycle of growth and rebirth.
These are just a few examples of the wide array of geometric and symbolic patterns
found in African art.
Year 9 African Art - Patterns

Visual Diary Entry

Read the information on the hand out and stick it into your visual diary

Create a page in your visual diary - Title and African pattern

Write a brief description of what you think African pattern is about

Write 5 facts about African patterns

Write down which artists have been influenced by African patterns

Look up African patterns, find an example and print it out for your page

Art Task
Read through the lesson slides for information and inspiration

Choose a method or style to create an A3 pattern sheet

Collect your materials

Have fun!

Evaluation
What have I learned about African patterns?

What shapes are used in African patterns?

Describe the colours used in African patterns?

How have I interpreted this knowledge into my project?

What methods, techniques and medium have I used in my project?

African Art

African art is characterized by an emphasis on conceptual or symbolic

representations, rather than imitating nature, aiming to capture the subject's
spiritual essence

Africa is a large and diverse continent. Its history is filled with the rise and fall of
numerous civilizations and empires. As a result, the art of Ancient Africa is varied
and diverse. However, there are some common themes throughout much of African
art.

Regions
Ancient African art can be divided into regions. The art of northern Africa was
influenced by the Arabs after the Islam conquest. Similarly, the art of Ethiopia and
the Horn of Africa was influenced by Europe and Christianity. There is also the well
preserved art of Ancient Egypt found in temples and burial chambers. What most
people think of today as African art is the art produced by the peoples living south
of the Sahara Desert.

Materials
The art of Ancient Africa used a wide variety of materials. Unfortunately, a lot of
African art was produced using wood, which has since been destroyed by time and
the elements. Other materials, such as metals (like bronze and iron), ceramics, and
ivory have survived.

Three Dimensions
One of the main elements of African art is that it is often created in
three-dimensions rather than two-dimensions. For example, they used sculpture
more often than flat paintings. Here are some of the primary types of art used in
Ancient Africa.

Sculpture - Sculpture was one of the most important types of art in Ancient Africa.
Sculptures were mostly made of people and sometimes animals. African artists often
used wood for their sculpture, but they also used bronze, terracotta, and ivory.

Masks - Masks were an important part of art. They were often used together with
dance to create a type of performance art. Masks were generally made of wood, but
were often decorated with ivory, gems, paint, and animal fur.

Jewelry - Many Ancient African civilizations created jewelry from gold, gems, shells,
and other materials. Jewelry was an important part of showing one's status and
wealth.

Pottery - Ceramics were used for everyday items like bowls and cooking pots.
However, some ceramics were works of art that were shaped and painted with fine
details.

Interesting Facts about Ancient African Art

●​ Rock paintings found in Namibia are thought to be some of the oldest pieces
of art in the world. They are estimated to be over 20,000 years old.
●​ Masks often looked like animals and represented the spirit of the animal in
religious ceremonies.
●​ The abstract nature of African art had an influence on the modern art
movements of Europe.
●​ Many times a small part of an African sculpture will be the same or similar to a
larger part of the same sculpture. This is called "nonlinear scaling."