Kuba: Visions of Africa
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: 5 Continents Editions (October 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 8874394047
ISBN-13: 978-8874394043
Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.6 x 0.6 inches
The latest volume in the Visions of Africa series explores the intriguing sculpture and decorative art of the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Best known for their king figures (ndop), considered among the greatest sculptural achievements of Sub-Saharan Africa, the Kuba actually produced little freestanding sculpture. Instead, they focused on a variety of decorative works that indicated success and achievement, and initiation-related pieces such as masks. The first book on this subject, Kuba examines the tribe's artistic development, from the 17th century through the turbulent colonial and post-colonial periods. The authors also explore the impact of Kuba beliefs on their art and discuss the pervasive concerns that inform the tribe's art-making. With fifty beautifully reproduced examples and an engaging, informative text, Kuba is a fascinating introduction to African art.
About the authors:
David A. Binkley is former Chief Curator and Senior Curator for Research and Interpretation at the National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution, where he developed numerous exhibitions and publications. Previously, he was Curator of the Arts of Africa, Oceania and the Americas at the Nelson-Atkins Museum in Kansas City. Patricia Darish taught African art history in The Kress Foundation Department of Art History, University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas and the Kansas City Art Institute. Both authors received their doctoral degrees from Indiana University, conducted extensive research in the Kuba region, and have published widely on Kuba arts and culture.
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