2. **How do the materials and techniques used in creating African tribal masks reflect the cultural beliefs and practices of the communities that produce them?
How is the concept of ma (negative space) utilized in various Japanese art forms, such as architecture, painting, and ikebana (flower arranging), and what cultural significance does it hold?
What are the characteristic features of Nihonga (Japanese-style painting), and how does it differ from Western-style art in terms of materials, techniques, and subject matter?
How do contemporary Japanese artists integrate traditional techniques and modern technology to create innovative art forms, and can you provide examples of specific artists or artworks?
In what ways did the Edo period (1603-1868) contribute to the development and popularization of ukiyo-e (woodblock prints), and who are some of the most notable artists from this period?
How does calligraphy function as both an art form and a means of religious expression in Islamic art, and what variations can be seen across different regions and time periods?
How have miniature paintings developed in the Indian subcontinent, and what role did patronage by the Mughal emperors play in the evolution and spread of this art form?
