what does it mean that african art is descrptive and historical not normative and intellectually interpretive?

Answer 1

you need to have good definitions of your terms.

descriptive -- in this case probably refers to being grounded in observation or experience.

historical -- means defined by, concerned with history or traditions

normative -- means conforming to standards or specific ways of doing things

interprative -- in this case probably refers to a particular way of doing things or creating art -- method, style, adaptation etc

So -- African art is more concerned with life and experience -- it is probably meant to explain or teach or symbolize something or to document a story or happening etc

which is opposed to the "western" ideal of art that is proscribed and set out into rules and ways of doing things. Art may tell a story, but it is created according to (generally) rigid rules and styles.

Does that make sense?

Sometimes the best place to start is to define your terms -- especially how they apply to the subject.

Answer 2

African has always been full of symbolism and deep hidden meaning. Art historians tend to describe this form of art solely from their point of veiw and not from the point of view of the African artist nor his/her culture.

Intellectually, African art is far superior than many other comparative art forms. African artists use color, line and form to emphasize their rich history and culture.

Answer 3

If you depict the hunt on a cave wall and keep track of your ancestry with beads, you have not exactly reached the point of Salvidor Dali.