THE UNNOTICED INFLUENCE OF TRIBAL ART
Tribal Art, also known as Primitive art, can be seen in various cultures around the world. African and Pre-Columbus America were significantly involved in the use of tribal art to communicate as well as convey symbolism. Courage, Audacity and Expressiveness are just some of the symbols attached to Tribal Art. It was used a means of communication as well as identity by tribe members to show they belonged to a certain tribe while many were used as a symbol of status within the tribe.
Primitive art has influenced many art styles including Surrealism. Picasso, during his proto-cubist period, took much inspiration from African tribal masks and served as a key inspiration behind his canvas Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. Matisse, a rival of Picasso also adopted primitivistic influences from art in Africa.
In the 20th Century, Tribal art remained a source of inspiration for countless artists. Keith Haring, Thierry Noir and Zio Ziegler all show tribal influences in their art work. Most recently, Tribal motifs have become popular with tattoo artists. Although, modern tribal and tattoo art ditches the meanings of traditional tribes, they still carry sentimental and personal meaning for the artists and the people getting tribal tattoos.
Tribal art has a long history and has evolved throughout the years from primitive populations to modern society. However, its significance is somewhat unnoticed as tribal art’s influence of various art forms such as Surrealism is impactful. Edition 3 pays homage to the history and importance of tribal art while demonstrating it in a contemporary form. The patterns are hand drawn to create artwork and clothing which is authentic to the history it portrays.
Les Demoiselles d’Avignon By Picasso
