UNIT 29: VISUAL ARTS

1. Meaning of Visual Arts

Visual Arts refers to all forms of artistic expression that are seen with the eyes. These include:

• Drawing

• Painting

• Sculpture

• Weaving

• Ceramics

• Graphic design

• Craftwork

Visual Arts help learners to:

• Express ideas and emotions

• Preserve culture

• Develop creativity

• Acquire vocational skills

• Appreciate beauty in the environment

At the primary level, Visual Arts develops hand–eye coordination, imagination, problem-solving skills, and cultural identity.

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2. Art Based on Culture and Environment

Meaning

Art based on culture and environment refers to artworks that reflect:

• People’s traditions

• Festivals

• Beliefs

• Occupations

• Clothing

• Natural surroundings

In Ghana, examples include:

• Kente weaving

• Adinkra symbols

• Calabash carving

• Bead making

• Traditional wall paintings

The environment also inspires art through:

• Trees

• Rivers

• Mountains

• Houses

• Animals

• Market scenes

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Importance of Cultural and Environmental Art

1. Preserves cultural heritage

2. Teaches history

3. Builds national identity

4. Encourages respect for diversity

5. Develops creativity among learners

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Classroom Application

Teachers guide pupils to:

• Observe their surroundings

• Draw community activities (farming, fishing, trading)

• Design artworks using local materials such as leaves, clay and sticks

• Create festival-themed drawings

Example:

A teacher may ask pupils to draw Homowo festival activities or a village market scene.

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3. International Visual Artists

International visual artists are artists from other countries whose works influence global art.

Examples:

Pablo Picasso (Spain)

• Known for Cubism

• Used shapes and abstract forms

Leonardo da Vinci (Italy)

• Famous for realistic paintings like Mona Lisa

• Combined science and art

Vincent van Gogh (Netherlands)

• Used bold colours and emotional strokes

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Importance of Studying International Artists

1. Learners gain global exposure

2. Improves creativity

3. Introduces different art techniques

4. Helps learners compare Ghanaian and foreign art

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Classroom Approach

Teachers:

• Show pictures of international artworks

• Discuss meaning and style

• Compare with Ghanaian art

• Allow pupils to imitate techniques

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4. Creating Own Artworks

Meaning

Creating own artworks means producing original art using personal ideas, experiences and imagination.

Learners use:

• Paper

• Paint

• Clay

• Fabric

• Recycled materials

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Steps in Creating Artworks

1. Idea generation

2. Planning/sketching

3. Selecting materials

4. Creating artwork

5. Display and evaluation

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Benefits

• Builds confidence

• Encourages innovation

• Develops fine motor skills

• Promotes self-expression

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UNIT 30: PERFORMING ARTS

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1. Meaning of Performing Arts

Performing Arts involves art forms performed live before an audience.

They include:

• Music

• Drama

• Dance

They help pupils to:

• Communicate ideas

• Build confidence

• Develop teamwork

• Improve speaking skills

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2. Music, Drama and Dance

Music

Music involves:

• Singing

• Playing instruments

• Rhythmic movement

In Ghanaian schools, music includes:

• Folk songs

• Drumming

• Call and response songs

Benefits:

• Improves memory

• Builds listening skills

• Promotes cultural identity

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Drama

Drama is acting out stories, situations or roles.

Examples:

• Role play

• Story dramatization

• Cultural plays

Drama develops:

• Communication skills

• Emotional intelligence

• Creativity

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Dance

Dance is rhythmic body movement to music.

Examples:

• Adowa

• Kpanlogo

• Bamaya

Dance improves:

• Physical fitness

• Coordination

• Cultural awareness

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3. Portfolio Display

Meaning

A portfolio is a collection of learners’ artworks and performances kept for assessment and exhibition.

It may include:

• Drawings

• Paintings

• Craft items

• Scripts

• Photographs of performances

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Importance of Portfolio Display

1. Shows learners’ progress

2. Builds confidence

3. Encourages peer learning

4. Helps assessment

Teachers guide learners to:

• Select best works

• Organise neatly

• Present to classmates or parents

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4. Creative Composition

Meaning

Creative composition refers to organising ideas, movements, sounds or drama into a complete performance or artwork.

Learners:

• Create songs

• Compose dances

• Write short plays

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Steps in Creative Composition

1. Choosing theme

2. Planning sequence

3. Practising

4. Performing

5. Reflection

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Classroom Example

Teacher assigns pupils to create a short drama on environmental cleanliness.

Groups:

• Write script

• Practise roles

• Perform to class

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