This course presents an introduction to African art and architecture from the traditional art forms of its varied cultures to the presence of African art in global contemporary art worlds. Objects, images, and writings will initiate consideration of the roles of African art in both local and western imaginaries. Specific topics will vary with instructor, but broad considerations will include: Traditional custom and ritual and its import for the creation of advanced sculpture and carving, the impact of African independence movements on African visual arts, and the pre-colonial, colonial, and postcolonial contexts for the production of visual arts in Africa.