African Art History From The Mists Of Time

South African art history reveals a culture of profound depth and the extraordinary art flowing from the hands of South African artists reinforces that ideal.

The oldest art objects ever discovered, small drilled snail shells possibly strung as a necklace, were found in a South African cave and are believed to be over 75,000 years old!

Home to some of the most beautiful and ancient art works in the world; South African artists have translated the myths and legends into modern-day masterpieces.

The San/Bushman peoples - 10,000 BC - had a fluid style that's preserved in a plethora of treasured cave paintings. Dancing figures in festive dress, hunters, domestic scenes and animals decorate the rock walls.

The last depictions included larger, darker people and most revealingly, white hunters on horseback. These priceless artifacts tell the tale of history.

The Bantu/Nguni peoples followed and eventually the union in 1910 signaled the end of the colonial era. This brought about great artistic diversity, from landscapes to abstract. This was South African art history that reflected the local flavor, life as it was rather than as a report to a colonial master.

Then the tumultuous forces of apartheid (1948-1994) tore apart the fabric of South Africa. Artists soon learned what it meant to create in a sea of turbulence.

The South African artist scrambled to continue traditional tribal art as they were scattered. Their craft emerged using any and all available materials while being confined to townships. In the early years most black artists were largely ignored.

This tradition of South African art history, starting with simple rock art, continues to thrive in the hands and hearts of the descendants of yesterday's Bushman. South Africa is the place where varied and unique pieces are continually being produced by contemporary artists.

The history of African artists was transported across an ocean with the advent of the slave trade. Artistic endeavors continued to flourish under the harsh conditions Africans endured in the new world.

African American art's early origins began in the slave communities established from the 1600's to the 1800's. The artists created small drums, quilts, wrought iron figures and ceramic vessels. Contemporary African American art objects now include awe-inspiring pieces in every possible medium.

Famous African American artists have led the way in translating their African culture and heritage into magnificent and unforgettable works of art. With similarities to West and Central African art, the African American artist began to develop a following with the emergence of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920's.

With a West and Central African flavour, the similarities were brought over from the African continent and flowered in their new home. Gradually, and with the advent of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920's, African American art began to take on its own shape and style.

Many artists, from the Highwaymen, who are part of American folk history, to contemporary African American artist Kara Walker, all pay tribute to the heritage of the ancestors.

The flavor of African artistry captures the beauty of life and renews our excitement for it. Every photograph, every painting, every sculpture delights our senses and emotions. Every stroke making up a canvas represents an escape, a passion, a life.

Allow your enthusiasm for African art take you on a magical journey.

About Author:
Nadine Desruisseaux loves life; but feels that it's speeding by so relentlessly. She wants, she needs to enjoy every single moment. Art is the answer. It delights her senses, her emotions. She wants everyone to savor the beauty of life captured in every exciting piece of African art. Visit with her at:
http://www.african-artopia.com/