Research Paper / Creative Research Project
The second assignment can be either a research paper or a creative research project. The paper/project can be on any topic of your choice that is relevant to our course. However, I must approve it. Proposals are due on February 28. On March 7 you need to turn in a Working Bibliography. On April 2, 4, & 11 each student will present the finding of her/his research. Papers and projects are due a week after your presentation.
What is a Research Paper?
For a research paper you should select a topic that will enable you to write effectively without resorting to over generalizations. First, define an area of interest. This can be a question, a region, an ethnic group, a type of object, or even a specific object. It can be on any aspect of African art, including style, use, technique, or an individual artist. It can be on any period from ancient rock art to contemporary artists. You should consult the literature on Reserve for a subject that you find interesting. You can also look at the journal African Arts at the library for ideas. The paper should augment or supplement the course material, and not repeat what we discussed in class. The expected length of the paper is about twelve pages.
What is a Creative Research Project?
A creative research project involves creating an artwork that reflects an understanding of a fundamental issue about African art. It can involve experimenting with an African technique, implementing a principle found in the art of a particular African culture, be informed by African aesthetics, or inspired by the work of an African artist. A six-page research paper explaining the nature of the project, giving background information and focusing on its relevance to the course must accompany your artwork.
What Next?
Once you know what your theme is, you should develop it into a workable research topic. This is a good time to consult with me. You may begin with a broad topic such as "Gold casting in Africa" or "Women in African Art," but you then need to narrow it down until you arrive at an effective research topic. A good paper should have at its core a research question or a hypothesis and not simply 'cover' a topic. Submit your proposal no later then March 3. In it, describe your topic in one or two paragraphs and provide a bibliography of at least three relevant items. I will give you a feedback on your proposal and may ask you to revise it. Sign up and come to see me in my office so that we can discuss your topic. I must approve your topic.
Prepare a Working Bibliography
Next, prepare a working bibliography. Find out who did original research on your subject. Avoid picture books whose writers only echo what they have read elsewhere. You need to rely on a variety of sources. The university library does not have enough material to support research. You should allow enough time to use the ABC Express service, other libraries in the region, and request items through the Interlibrary Loan service. To help you learn how to find sources for research on African art we will have a library instruction session on February 25. I can also make material available to you from my own library. You can find suggestions on how to locate and obtain sources on African art on this web site. You will not find on the Internet resources that are appropriate to the level of research required in this course. Compile a list of at least ten relevant sources using an appropriate bibliographical format and turn it in on March 17.
Presentation
Starting on April 9, each student will share the results of her/his research or creative project with the rest of the class. Prepare a twenty-minute presentation focusing on the essential elements of your findings. Explain the objective of your study and describe your findings. Avoid needless technical terms and words in unfamiliar languages. If you have created a work of art, bring it to class. Consult with me about images and other visual material.
Finally -- The Written Paper
When writing, be precise and succinct. Compose a clear opening statement on what you are out to do. Write a concluding statement summarizing what you have achieved. Include only the essential and avoid digressions. Proofread your paper carefully. Attach photocopies of relevant objects with references to their sources. Pay special attention to the issue of documentation.
The Writing Center is an excellent service of the university that helps students write effectively. When you have an advanced draft of your paper, you can schedule an appointment at 262‑3144 and a trained person will go over the paper with you and point out ways to improve it.
The paper is due a week after your presentation. Keep a copy of the completed paper with you.
Remember that you must get my approval for your topic. I will expect you to consult with me at least three times while researching and writing your paper.
