Elements of Art
Shape Definition
The two-dimensional area that is defined by a boundary, such as a line or color.
Balance Definition
equal weight on both sides of a composition (artwork)
Clay
natural rock and minerals found really tiny to make pottery, tiles, sculptures.
Leather Hard
unfired clay that is still wet so that you can carve into it
What was the purpose of these masks?
Masks were very important during ceremonies because they were used to entertain the people
Two categories of shapes
1. Organic
2. Geometric
Symmetrical Balance Definition
if the composition were folded in half, both sides would be equal.
Slabs
when the clay has been rolled out to be flat and even
Greenware
clay that has not been fired yet
Why did dancers use these masks?
The masks made dancers look more exciting.
Texture Definition
The surface quality of an object, such as smooth or rough.
Asymmetrical Balance Definition
One half dominates over the other half, but the entire piece is still balanced.
Wedging
the process of kneading the clay to get rid of air bubbles
Bone Dry
unfired clay that is free of water and ready to fire
Where in Africa were these masks used?
West, Central, and Southern Africa
2 Different Texture Types
1. implied texture
2. actual texture
Contrast Definition
Differences that separates one form from another
Scoring
making marks on two pieces of clay before joining together with slip
Bisque
the first firing of clay without any glaze
What did the masks represent?
Masks represented abstract human style or a combination of human and animal combination
Line Definition
A continuous mark. Lines can be straight, curved, thick, thin, or broken, and can be used to create a sense of movement, direction, and mood.
Pattern Definition
Repetition of similar elements (shapes, lines, color)
Slip
clay mixed with a lot of water to make a runny consistency
Glazing
ground up minerals that stick to glaze when it is in very hot fire. It adds color to the clay.
Where were these masks worn?
During harvest celebrations, funerals, rites of passage, weddings, ceremonies, rituals, masquerades and coronations.