I am not understanding the assignment due for Friday. We are to write a 200-300 word response to the following: in you own words, summarize why Kenneth Clark's interpretation of African mask is ethnocentric. I really do not understand what ethnocentric.
To understand why Kenneth Clark's interpretation of African masks is considered ethnocentric, let's first define what ethnocentrism means. Ethnocentrism is a concept in sociology and anthropology that refers to the belief in the inherent superiority of one's own culture or ethnic group over others. It involves judging and interpreting other cultures from the perspective of one's own cultural norms, values, and beliefs, often leading to a biased or distorted understanding.
In the case of Kenneth Clark's interpretation of African masks, it is important to recognize that he was a British art historian who examined African art from a Western perspective. This perspective inherently brings with it certain cultural biases and preconceptions, which can influence the way African art is interpreted and understood.
Clark's ethnocentric interpretation of African masks can be seen in several ways. Firstly, he placed these masks within the context of Western art traditions, comparing them to European art movements without fully appreciating their distinct cultural and historical significance. By doing so, he failed to recognize the rich and complex meanings embedded within African masks within their own cultural context.
Secondly, Clark's focus on the aesthetics of African masks from a Western viewpoint tends to overlook their functional and ritualistic aspects. African masks often serve specific ceremonial purposes within indigenous African cultures, such as religious ceremonies, initiation rites, or community celebrations. By neglecting these important cultural contexts, Clark's interpretation diminishes the significance and understanding of African masks as more than just artistic objects.
Lastly, ethnocentrism can also be observed in Clark's evaluation of African masks based on Western preconceived notions of what constitutes "good" or "valuable" art. This overlooks the different principles of aesthetics and artistic values that exist in African cultures. Clark's failure to appreciate these cultural variations limits the holistic understanding of African masks and undermines their cultural significance.
In summary, Kenneth Clark's interpretation of African masks can be considered ethnocentric because he approached them from a Western perspective, comparing them to European art traditions, neglecting their cultural contexts and functions, and imposing Western standards of aesthetic value. To elaborate on these points in your response, provide specific examples and draw on research or readings that highlight the cultural specificities and multiplicity of interpretations surrounding African masks.