Colonialism

Definition

Colonialism is the practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country, often by establishing settlements and exploiting its resources. It involves the domination of one nation over another, leading to significant cultural, social, and economic changes in the colonized region. This concept is essential in understanding how African art has been influenced by external forces and the dynamics of power throughout history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Colonialism significantly altered traditional African art practices by introducing new materials, styles, and concepts from European cultures.
2. Many contemporary African artists navigate both local traditions and global art markets, often addressing themes of colonial legacy in their work.
3. The 'Primitivism' movement in early modernist art was heavily influenced by colonial attitudes towards African art, reducing it to stereotypes while simultaneously appropriating its aesthetics.
4. Cubism's emergence was partly shaped by encounters with African art during the colonial period, leading to a reevaluation of form and perspective in Western art.
5. Sacred objects and power figures were often misunderstood or misrepresented by colonial powers, resulting in significant loss and damage to their cultural significance.

Review Questions

• How did colonialism affect traditional African art forms and practices?
  • Colonialism brought about a significant transformation in traditional African art forms by introducing foreign influences and materials. Many local artists were pressured to adapt their styles to cater to colonial tastes or to incorporate European techniques into their works. This resulted in a blending of styles but also led to the erosion of some traditional practices as indigenous artists navigated the demands of the colonial system.
• In what ways did 'Primitivism' reflect colonial attitudes towards African art during the early modernist period?
  • 'Primitivism' served as a reflection of colonial attitudes by romanticizing and simplifying African art into stereotypes that appealed to Western audiences. Early modernist artists often appropriated African motifs without understanding their cultural context, which allowed them to create a new artistic vocabulary while simultaneously perpetuating colonial perceptions. This dynamic created a complex relationship between admiration for African aesthetics and the underlying exploitation present in colonial discourse.
• Analyze how the legacy of colonialism continues to influence contemporary African artists within global art markets today.
  • Contemporary African artists are deeply influenced by the legacy of colonialism as they navigate global art markets that still carry remnants of colonial attitudes. Many artists address issues such as identity, cultural reclamation, and the socio-political impacts of colonial rule in their works. This engagement not only challenges existing stereotypes but also allows for a redefinition of African narratives within a global context. The struggle for recognition and fair representation in these markets remains a critical aspect of their work, reflecting ongoing dialogues about power dynamics established during the colonial era.

Related terms

Postcolonialism: An academic discipline that examines the cultural, political, and economic legacies of colonialism and imperialism, focusing on the aftermath of colonization and its impact on societies.

Cultural Appropriation:

The adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without permission, which can lead to misunderstanding and misrepresentation of the original culture.

Decolonization: The process through which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, resulting in political and social change, often accompanied by a resurgence of indigenous culture and identity.