Introduction to Local Craft – JSS1 Cultural & Creative Arts Lesson Note (Second Term)

A craft is an activity that involves making things skilfully by hand, often in a traditional way. It is a pastime or profession that needs particular skills. In Nigeria, crafts include basketry, pottery, textiles, beadwork, leather work, wood carving and metal work, and they serve economic, cultural and social purposes.

Behavioural objectives

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

1. Define craft and state its meanings.
2. Name and describe seven types of crafts in Nigeria.
3. State the characteristics of craft and how it differs from fine art.
4. List common craft tools and local materials.
5. Explain the economic, cultural and social importance of crafts.
6. State the challenges facing traditional crafts and the efforts made to preserve them.

What is a craft?

The word “craft” has multiple meanings:

• An activity involving manual skill and creativity
• The skilled practice of a particular trade or art form
• Objects made by hand using traditional methods

Historical background of craft

Crafts have existed since ancient times when humans first began creating tools and decorative objects. In medieval times, craft guilds were formed to protect the interests of skilled artisans. Craftspeople held important positions in society as they created essential items for daily life.

What are the types of crafts in Nigeria?

1. Basketry and basket-making

• Made from materials like raffia, cane, grass and palm fronds
• Common across all regions of Nigeria
• Used for storage, farming, fishing and decoration
• Different weaving patterns identify different communities

2. Pottery and ceramics

• Clay vessels made for cooking, storage and ceremonies
• Famous pottery centres include Ilorin, Benin and Suleja
• Traditional firing methods using open kilns
• Decorative patterns often have cultural meanings

3. Textile crafts

• Aso-oke: Woven by the Yoruba people using traditional looms
• Akwete cloth: Made by Igbo women, known for complex patterns
• Adire: Yoruba tie-dye and resist-dyeing techniques
• Kente: Colourful woven cloth with geometric patterns

4. Beadwork

• Used in making jewellery, crowns and ceremonial costumes
• Important in royal regalia and traditional ceremonies
• Different colours and patterns have symbolic meanings
• Materials include glass beads, cowrie shells and seeds

5. Leather work

• Concentrated in Northern Nigeria (Kano, Sokoto)
• Products include bags, shoes, belts and cushions
• Traditional tanning methods using local plants
• Often decorated with colourful patterns

6. Wood carving

• Used for masks, sculptures, doors and furniture
• Each ethnic group has distinctive carving styles
• Religious and cultural symbols in designs
• Tools include chisels, knives and adzes

7. Metal work

• Bronze casting tradition of Benin Kingdom
• Blacksmithing for tools and weapons
• Brass work for decorative items
• Silver and gold smithing for jewellery

What are the characteristics of craft?

1. Handmade nature: Primarily created by hand with simple tools
2. Traditional techniques: Methods passed down through generations
3. Functional purpose: Often serve practical needs
4. Cultural identity: Reflect the customs and beliefs of communities
5. Skill-based: Require specialised training and practice

What is the difference between craft and fine art?

What tools and materials are used in craft?

Basic tools

• Cutting tools: Knives, scissors, chisels
• Measuring tools: Rulers, tape measures
• Joining tools: Needles, thread, glue
• Shaping tools: Hammers, mallets, pliers
• Finishing tools: Sandpaper, files, polish

Local materials

• Plant fibres: Raffia, bamboo, rattan, cotton
• Earth materials: Clay, mud, sand
• Wood: Iroko, mahogany, ebony
• Animal products: Leather, bone, shells
• Metals: Iron, brass, bronze, copper

Why are crafts important?

Economic importance

• Source of income for families
• Creates employment opportunities
• Contributes to the tourism industry
• Potential for export earnings
• Supports local economies

Cultural importance

• Preserves traditional knowledge
• Maintains cultural identity
• Used in ceremonies and festivals
• Tells historical stories
• Passes skills to new generations

Social importance

• Brings communities together
• Provides creative expression
• Has therapeutic and recreational value
• Builds self-esteem and pride
• Encourages cultural exchange

How can traditional crafts be preserved?

Modern challenges to traditional crafts

• Competition from machine-made products
• Lack of interest from younger generations
• Scarcity of raw materials
• Limited market access

Efforts to preserve crafts

• Government support programmes
• Craft centres and museums
• Cultural festivals and exhibitions
• Educational programmes in schools
• International recognition and protection

What is contemporary craft practice?

Modern craftspeople often:

• Combine traditional and modern techniques
• Use new materials alongside traditional ones
• Create products for contemporary markets
• Adapt designs for modern tastes
• Use technology for marketing and sales

Notable craft centres in Nigeria

1. Nike Art Gallery (Lagos): Various crafts
2. Osogbo Art Centre: Textile and visual arts
3. Benin Craft Centre: Bronze casting
4. Kano Dye Pits: Textile dyeing

Why should students learn a craft?

Crafts form an integral part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. They represent the creativity, skill and traditions of various ethnic groups. Learning about and practising crafts helps preserve these traditions while providing economic opportunities. Every student can learn at least one craft skill that connects them to their cultural roots while potentially providing future income.

Key points to remember

• Craft is skilled handwork with traditional or artistic value
• Nigeria has diverse craft traditions across all regions
• Crafts serve functional, cultural and economic purposes
• Traditional crafts face modern challenges but remain important
• Preserving craft traditions benefits individuals and society

Evaluation

1. Define craft.
2. List five characteristics of craft.
3. State three differences between craft and fine art.
4. Name four materials used in making baskets, pottery or beadwork.
5. State two challenges facing traditional crafts.

Assignment

1. List five types of crafts in Nigeria and name one material used for each.
2. Explain the economic importance of crafts in three points.