INVESTIGATING TIV ART AND CRAFTS AND INDIGENOUS ARTISTS

Isaac Terzungwe Dankaro Ph.D
Department of Fine & Applied Arts
College of Education, Katsina Ala
[email protected]

Abstract
ood is one of the raw materials that artists and indeed, traditional artists all over
the world use a lot as a medium of expression for aesthetic and utilitarian
Wpurposes. This study sought to identify and document indigenous Tiv arts and
crafts practitioners in Nigeria, with particular attention on wood carvers and the production process in 14 Tiv speaking Local Government Areas of Benue State of Nigeria. Two objectives were formulated to guide the study and the instrument for data collection was oral interview using unstructured questions with the local craft artisans. Data collected was subjected to descriptive statistical procedures, using frequencies and percentages. The findings uncovered the presence of traditional wood carvers all over Tiv areas of Benue and the procedures they use to produce wood carvings. Recommendations include empowering the wood carving practitioners, organizing occasional exhibitions and the integration of Tiv wood carving procedures in art education. This will make concepts taught in art more meaningful among Tiv children than when those from other cultures are used.