Module 10-Video Review

1.   Explain why you selected each of the TWO videos you choose from the selection listed above.

I chose the two videos because I wanted to learn a bit more about African art and Buddhism. Reading about them in the book intrigued me to choose them. The history behind them is quite interesting. 

2.   For each video list/discuss the key concepts you learned.

The African Art: Legacy of Oppression video discusses the artistic creations and styles of the African culture. The Belgium Tervuren Museum is one of the largest that contains hundred of thousands of pieces of African art. (video) There are many works of art that may seem disturbing but leaves a message of African history. The most common of all were masks, which symbolized numerous things such as feelings and challenges in life. These help us to understand how it was back in time. The existence of the past endures our future.

The Buddhism video focused on the creation and inspiring motives of Buddha himself. He represented not in human form yet through symbolism such as carved animals, flowers and figures. Also, the temple and Stupa were places of worship that created serenity to all people who took the time to meditate. The largest temple was called Borobudur, which represented a place to learn of Buddhism. The afterlife was worshiped and reflected upon, creating heaven on earth to Buddhists. 

3.   How do the videos relate to the readings in the text?

Both relate to the text by how they expand on the history of African art and Buddhism. African art is symbolized through the many things that were made. These influenced the future of the world and created new life to the culture. Buddha created Buddhism in regards to his unique liking for art and architecture. When Buddha died, his spirit emerged influencing cultures and inspiring happiness and simplicity. 

4.   What is your opinion of the films? How do they add depth to understanding of the readings and art concepts?

I enjoyed both films as they expanded my imagination on both African art and Buddhism. There is always an advantage to visual documentation that allows one to see the history through a different perspective. This helps me to understand the concepts more clearly.