Exploring Prominent Nigerian Contemporary Artworks Cultural and Creative Arts JSS 3 First Term Lesson Notes Week 4

Subject: Cultural and Creative Arts
Class: JSS 3
Term: First Term
Week: 4
Age: 14-15 years
Topic: Nigerian Contemporary Artwork
Sub-topic: Prominent Works of Artists, Their Locations, and Income Generation through Contemporary Art
Duration: 60 minutes

Behavioral Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

Identify prominent contemporary artworks and their locations.
Discuss the significance of these works and their artists.
Explain how contemporary art can generate income for artists and communities.

Key Words

Contemporary Art
Prominent Works
Caran (Sango)
Demas Nwoko
Etching
Income Generation

Set Induction

Begin with a question: “How can art contribute to our economy?” Encourage students to share their ideas about art and income.

Entry Behaviour

Students should have a basic understanding of contemporary art and its role in society.

Learning Resources and Materials

Images of contemporary artworks
Reference books: Lagos State Scheme of Work, Cultural and Creative Arts textbooks

Building Background / Connection to Prior Knowledge

Discuss previous lessons on contemporary artists and their contributions to Nigerian art.

Embedded Core Skills

Critical thinking
Research skills
Communication skills

Learning Materials

Images of the featured artworks
Printed handouts with artist information

Instructional Materials

Projector
Whiteboard and markers
Printed materials on contemporary art income generation

Content

Prominent Works of Artists and Their Locations:
- Caran (Sango) by Ben Enwonwu:
  - A prominent sculpture representing Sango, the Yoruba god of thunder.
  - Location: National Museum, Lagos.
- Sculptural Decoration by Demas Nwoko:
  - Nwoko’s work includes sculptural decorations at the National Theatre, Lagos, reflecting the cultural heritage of Nigeria.
  - Location: National Theatre, Lagos.
- Etching by Bruce Onobrakpeya:
  - Onobrakpeya is known for his innovative etching techniques, producing works that tell Nigerian stories.
  - Location: Delta State.
Income Generation through Contemporary Art:
- Contemporary art provides income through various means:
  - Sales of Artworks: Artists can sell their pieces in galleries, exhibitions, or online.
  - Commissions: Artists may be commissioned for specific works by individuals or organizations.
  - Art Festivals: Participation in art festivals can attract buyers and promote artists’ work.
  - Workshops and Classes: Artists can teach workshops or classes, sharing their skills and generating income.
  - Collaborations: Collaborating with businesses for murals, branding, or design can provide financial benefits.

Lesson Breakdown:

Prominent Works of Nigerian Contemporary Artists and Their Locations
- “Sango” by Ben Enwonwu: A dynamic sculpture of the Yoruba deity Sango, located in various collections worldwide, known for its embodiment of traditional Yoruba mythology in a modern artistic style.
- Sculptural Decoration by Demas Nwoko: Found at the National Theatre in Lagos, this artwork represents Demas Nwoko’s unique blend of modern architecture and traditional Nigerian motifs.
- Etchings by Bruce Onobrakpeya: Onobrakpeya’s works, including his famous etchings, are displayed across Nigeria, especially in Delta State. His etchings often incorporate Nigerian folklore, symbols, and cultural narratives.
Income Generation through Contemporary Art
- Art Sales: Artists earn income by selling their works locally and internationally through galleries, exhibitions, and private commissions.
- Art Exhibitions and Auctions: Organized exhibitions and auctions help artists display and sell their artworks, often attracting high-profile buyers and collectors.
- Cultural Tourism: Contemporary art attracts tourists to galleries and museums, generating income for artists and boosting the local economy.
- Art Education and Workshops: Many artists generate income by teaching art, holding workshops, and mentoring younger artists.

Class Activities:

Visual Presentation:
- Show images of “Sango,” Demas Nwoko’s National Theatre sculpture, and Onobrakpeya’s etchings to discuss the artists’ styles and the significance of these works.
Class Discussion:
- Discuss the various ways contemporary artists can earn a living and how art contributes to the Nigerian economy.
Group Research Activity:
- Assign groups to research other prominent Nigerian contemporary artworks and discuss how these pieces contribute to Nigeria’s cultural and economic landscape.

Evaluation:

Name two prominent works by Nigerian contemporary artists and their locations.
Explain two ways artists can earn income through contemporary art.

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions

Caran (Sango) is a sculpture created by _______. (a) Aina Onabolu (b) Ben Enwonwu (c) Bruce Onobrakpeya (d) Demas Nwoko
The sculpture Caran (Sango) is located at the _______. (a) National Gallery (b) National Theatre (c) National Museum (d) Art House
Demas Nwoko is known for his sculptural decoration at the _______. (a) National Theatre (b) Lagos Airport (c) City Hall (d) Museum of Modern Art
Bruce Onobrakpeya is famous for his _______ techniques. (a) painting (b) sculpting (c) etching (d) pottery
The location of Onobrakpeya’s work is in _______ State. (a) Lagos (b) Delta (c) Osun (d) Ogun
Contemporary art can generate income through the _______ of artworks. (a) destruction (b) sales (c) donation (d) appreciation
Artists may receive _______ for specific works. (a) loans (b) commissions (c) credits (d) referrals
Participation in art _______ can attract buyers. (a) competitions (b) festivals (c) seminars (d) meetings
Workshops can provide income through teaching _______. (a) skills (b) lessons (c) courses (d) projects
Collaborations with businesses can help artists in _______. (a) networking (b) travel (c) sales (d) entertainment
Caran (Sango) represents the Yoruba god of _______. (a) love (b) thunder (c) wisdom (d) war
The National Theatre is located in _______. (a) Abuja (b) Lagos (c) Port Harcourt (d) Enugu
Onobrakpeya’s etching works often tell Nigerian _______. (a) tales (b) histories (c) stories (d) legends
Contemporary art often reflects _______ issues. (a) historical (b) current (c) future (d) imaginary
Artists use _______ to promote their works and generate income. (a) social media (b) newspapers (c) friends (d) art galleries

FAQ with Answers

What is the significance of Caran (Sango)?
Caran (Sango) represents the Yoruba god of thunder and showcases Ben Enwonwu’s talent in sculpture.
Where can I find the sculpture Caran (Sango)?
It is located at the National Museum in Lagos.
What kind of decorations did Demas Nwoko create?
He created sculptural decorations that reflect Nigerian cultural heritage at the National Theatre, Lagos.
How does Bruce Onobrakpeya contribute to contemporary art?
He is known for his innovative etching techniques that tell stories of Nigeria.
In which state is Bruce Onobrakpeya based?
He is based in Delta State.
How can artists earn income from their works?
They can sell artworks, take commissions, and participate in festivals.
What role do art festivals play for artists?
Art festivals provide a platform to showcase work and attract potential buyers.
How can workshops be a source of income for artists?
Artists can teach their skills and charge fees for participation.
What types of collaborations can artists engage in?
Artists can collaborate with businesses for murals, designs, and branding projects.
Why is it important for artists to promote their work?
Promotion helps increase visibility and sales, contributing to their income and success.
Can anyone purchase contemporary art?
Yes, contemporary art is accessible to anyone interested in buying it.
What makes contemporary art different from traditional art?
Contemporary art often incorporates modern themes, techniques, and materials, reflecting current issues.
How do artists benefit from social media?
Social media helps artists reach a broader audience and promote their work effectively.
What is the role of galleries in selling contemporary art?
Galleries showcase artworks and connect artists with potential buyers.
How does art contribute to community income?
Art can attract tourism, support local businesses, and create jobs in the creative sector.

Presentation

Step 1: The teacher revises the previous topic, which was “Contemporary Nigerian Art/Artist.”
Step 2: The teacher introduces the new topic, “Nigerian Contemporary Artwork.”
Step 3: The teacher allows the pupils to give their contributions and corrects them when necessary.

Teacher’s Activities

Facilitate discussions on contemporary artworks and their significance.
Show images of prominent artworks and their locations.
Provide information about how contemporary art generates income.

Learners’ Activities

Participate in discussions.
Examine images of contemporary artworks.
Share thoughts on the economic impact of contemporary art.

Assessment

Observe student participation during discussions.
Review responses to fill-in-the-blank questions.

Evaluation Questions

Identify the artist of the sculpture Caran (Sango).
Where is Demas Nwoko’s work located?
What type of artwork is Bruce Onobrakpeya known for?
How can contemporary art generate income for artists?
Discuss the significance of the National Theatre in the context of contemporary art.
What themes are often reflected in contemporary artworks?
Describe how art festivals benefit artists.
What is the importance of teaching workshops in the arts?
How does collaboration with businesses help artists?
Why is it essential for artists to promote their works?

Conclusion

The teacher goes around to mark the answers and provides feedback on the topic. Summarize the importance of Nigerian contemporary artworks and how they contribute to income generation in the arts.