Traditional African art has always been a functional and necessary part of everyday life and it would be impossible to understand African culture without an understanding of their art. Religion, government, education, work and entertainment were all closely inter-related in traditional African societies. All of the arts, whether musical, oral or sculptural, were deeply woven into the very fabric of social life and played a central role in binding together all members of the community through corporate activity.
African art is principally symbolic rather than representational. It is more concerned with visualizing concepts rather than with accurately representing nature. Woven textiles and other fabrics are embedded in the culture of Africa. Often decorated with brilliant colors and intricate designs, they are available in almost every part of the continent. The designs and the slogans printed on them represent a subtle and complex form of communication.
