Introduction To Local Craft JSS1 Cultural & Creative Arts (CCA) Lesson Note

DEFINITION OF CRAFT

A craft is an activity that involves making things skillfully by hand, often in a traditional way. It is a pastime or profession that requires particular skills and knowledge of skilled work.

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

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.

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 centers 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: Colorful woven cloth with geometric patterns

4. Beadwork

• Used in making jewelry, crowns, and ceremonial costumes
• Important in royal regalia and traditional ceremonies
• Different colors 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 colorful 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 jewelry

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 specialized training and practice

CRAFT VS. FINE ART

Craft:

• Functional and utilitarian
• Traditional techniques
• Reproducible items
• Skill and technique focused
• Often anonymous creators

Fine Art:

• Primarily aesthetic
• Individual expression
• Unique pieces
• Concept and emotion focused
• Artist recognition important

CRAFT TOOLS AND MATERIALS

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

IMPORTANCE OF CRAFTS

Economic Importance:

• Source of income for families
• Creates employment opportunities
• Contributes to 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
• Therapeutic and recreational value
• Builds self-esteem and pride
• Encourages cultural exchange

CRAFT PRESERVATION

Modern challenges to traditional crafts include:

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

Efforts to preserve crafts:

• Government support programs
• Craft centers and museums
• Cultural festivals and exhibitions
• Educational programs in schools
• International recognition and protection

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 CENTERS 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
5. Okahandja Craft Market – Multiple crafts

CONCLUSION

Crafts form an integral part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. They represent the creativity, skill, and traditions of various ethnic groups. Learning about and practicing 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