Are you looking for the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028? You are in the right place. I will show you the main Art topics you need to study and explain them in simple English.
The Area of Concentration for Art is divided into four main sections: Classification of Art, Historical Dimensions of Art, Artistic Skills and Techniques, and Art Appreciation. The syllabus also covers the meaning and functions of art in society and career opportunities in Visual Arts.
You will study topics such as the elements and principles of design, important art terms, prehistoric and Renaissance art, African and Nigerian traditional art, Nigerian crafts, contemporary Nigerian artists, art movements, perspective, drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, art tools, museums, festivals, and art entrepreneurship.
I will break the topics into simple sections so you can clearly see what to study. You will also learn about important Nigerian artists, traditional art centres, art schools, museums, galleries, festivals, and the different ways art is used in society.
The syllabus also expects you to understand how art materials and tools are used and maintained. You should also know how different artistic techniques and processes work.
So, let us begin with the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028, starting with Classification of Art, Elements and Principles of Design.
Section A: Classification of Art, Elements and Principles of Design
The first part of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028 introduces you to the basic ideas you need to understand Art. This section covers the classification of Art, elements of design, principles of design, and common Art terms. The syllabus expects you to identify, explain, and use these ideas when looking at artworks.
So, don’t just memorize the names. Learn what each one means and how it is used.
1. Classification of Art
The syllabus divides Art into three main branches:
- Visual Arts
- Performing Arts
- Literary Arts
You should be able to differentiate between these three branches.
Visual Arts
Visual Arts include Fine Arts and Applied Arts.
This area deals with artworks that can be seen, such as drawings, paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual design.
You should understand the difference between Fine Arts and Applied Arts as part of your study of Visual Arts.
Performing Arts
Performing Arts include:
- Music
- Dance
- Drama
These forms of Art are presented through performance.
For example, music can be performed through singing or instruments, while dance uses body movement and drama involves acting.
Literary Arts
Literary Arts include forms such as:
- Poetry
- Prose
- Recitals
You should understand how Literary Arts differ from Visual and Performing Arts.
A simple way to remember the three branches is this: Visual Arts are mainly seen, Performing Arts are performed, and Literary Arts are expressed through literary forms.
2. Elements of Design
The next topic is the elements of design.
The syllabus lists:
- Line
- Colour
- Shape
- Form
- Texture
- Tone
- Value
- Space
You should be able to identify these elements when looking at an artwork.
Line
Line is one of the basic elements used in design.
When studying it, learn how lines can appear and how they can contribute to an artwork.
Colour
Colour is another important element of design.
You should understand how colour is used as part of an artwork and how you can identify it when analysing a design.
Shape and Form
You should know the difference between shape and form.
They are both listed separately in the syllabus, so don’t treat them as the same thing when revising.
Texture
Texture relates to the quality or appearance of a surface.
You should be able to identify texture as an element when examining an artwork.
Tone and Value
The syllabus also includes tone and value.
Pay attention to these terms because they are part of the elements you are expected to identify and use when analysing artworks.
Space
Space is also an element of design.
You should understand how space appears in an artwork and how it contributes to the overall design.
3. Principles of Design
After learning the elements, you should study the principles of design.
The syllabus lists:
- Balance
- Rhythm
- Proportion
- Harmony
- Contrast
- Repetition
- Dominance
- Variety
You should be able to analyse these principles in artworks.
Balance
Study how balance is used in a design and how it affects the arrangement of elements.
Rhythm and Repetition
You should understand rhythm and repetition and be able to identify them when analysing an artwork.
Proportion
Proportion is also listed as a principle of design.
You should learn how it is used when different parts of an artwork are arranged.
Harmony and Contrast
You should know the difference between harmony and contrast.
They are both principles of design, but they are used in different ways.
Dominance and Variety
The syllabus also includes dominance and variety.
You should understand these principles and be able to recognize them in artworks.
The important thing is to learn how the elements and principles work together.
4. Important Art Terms
The syllabus also contains several Art terms that you need to know.
These include:
- Pigments
- Motif
- Greenware
- Armature
- Silhouette
- Chiaroscuro
- Cire perdue
- Terracotta
You should be able to identify these terms, connect them to their areas of Art, and use them when analysing artworks.
Pigments
Study what pigments are and the area of Art where they are used.
Motif
Learn the meaning of motif and how it can be identified in an artwork or design.
Greenware
You should understand the term greenware and the area of Art it relates to.
Armature
Study armature and its use in Art.
Silhouette
Learn how to identify a silhouette and understand the term when it appears in an Art question.
Chiaroscuro
You should know the meaning and use of chiaroscuro as an Art term.
Cire Perdue
Study cire perdue and connect the term to its appropriate area of Art.
Terracotta
You should also learn the meaning of terracotta and its place in Art.
What You Should Focus on in Section A
The objectives for this section expect you to differentiate between the three branches of Art, identify the elements of design, analyse the principles of design, identify Art terms, connect the terms to their areas of Art, and use the terms when analysing artworks.
So, when revising, don’t just ask yourself, “Do I know this word?”
Ask yourself:
Can I identify it in an artwork? Can I explain what it means? Can I connect it to the correct area of Art?
Section B: Historical Dimensions of Art and Nigerian Art
The second part of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028 focuses on the history and development of Art. It covers major periods of Art history, traditional African Art, traditional Nigerian Art, Nigerian crafts, contemporary Nigerian artists, Art institutions, and major Nigerian festivals.
This section is mainly about knowing the period, style, materials, artists, locations, and characteristics of different artworks.
1. Historical Dimensions of Art
You should begin with the major periods of Art history listed in the syllabus.
These include:
- Prehistoric Art
- Greek Art
- Roman Art
- Medieval Art
- Renaissance Art
- 19th and 20th century Art movements
You should be able to compare the materials, styles, and techniques used in different periods.
2. Medieval Art
The syllabus includes three main areas of Medieval Art:
- Architecture
- Surface decorations
- Calligraphy
You should learn the characteristics of these forms and understand how they were used during the Medieval period.
Architecture
Study the architectural features associated with Medieval Art.
You should be able to classify different periods and styles, especially where architecture is concerned.
Surface Decoration
Surface decoration is also included in the syllabus.
Pay attention to how decorative designs were used and how they can help you identify a particular style or period.
Calligraphy
You should also study calligraphy and its place in Medieval Art.
When revising historical Art, always connect the period with its style and characteristics.
3. Renaissance Art and Artists
The Renaissance is another important part of this section.
The syllabus specifically lists four Renaissance artists:
- Giotto Di Bondone
- Michelangelo Buonarroti
- Leonardo da Vinci
- Raphael (Raffaello Santi)
You should study their works and styles.
The syllabus expects you to compare the artists, their works, and their styles.
Giotto Di Bondone
Study Giotto and the works and artistic style associated with him.
Michelangelo Buonarroti
You should know Michelangelo and his contribution to Renaissance Art.
Leonardo da Vinci
Study Leonardo da Vinci, his works, and his artistic style.
Raphael
You should also study Raphael, also known as Raffaello Santi, and his works and style.
Don’t memorize the four names alone. Try to connect each artist with their works and artistic style.
4. 19th and 20th Century Art Movements
The syllabus includes several Art movements from the 19th and 20th centuries.
These are:
- Impressionism
- Realism
- Futurism
- Cubism
- Bauhaus
- Pop Art
- Abstract Expressionism
- Fauvism
You should be able to differentiate between the various Art movements.
Impressionism
Study the basic characteristics and style of Impressionism.
Realism
Learn the main features that distinguish Realism from other Art movements.
Futurism
Study the characteristics of Futurism and how it differs from other movements.
Cubism
You should know the basic style and characteristics of Cubism.
Bauhaus
Study Bauhaus and its place among the Art movements listed in the syllabus.
Pop Art
Learn the main characteristics of Pop Art.
Abstract Expressionism
Study its basic style and characteristics.
Fauvism
You should also learn how to identify Fauvism and distinguish it from the other movements.
The goal is to know the differences between these movements, not just memorize their names.
5. Traditional African Art
The syllabus also covers traditional African Art from several groups and regions.
The listed examples include:
- Egypt
- Ashanti
- Dogon
- Mossi
- Fon
- Senufo
- Bambara
- Mende
- Kissi
- Bamileke
- Bakumba
You should study their origins, locations, styles, materials, and characteristics.
The syllabus expects you to categorise artworks according to their styles, materials, and locations.
Ask yourself:
Where did this artwork come from? What material was used? What style does it show?
These questions can help you organize what you study.
6. Traditional Nigerian Art
Traditional Nigerian Art is an important part of the syllabus.
The traditions listed include:
- Nok
- Igbo-Ukwu
- Ife
- Benin
- Esie
- Igala
- Jukun
- Akwashi
- Mbari
You should learn the characteristics, locations, materials, and functions connected with these traditions.
Nok Art
Study the characteristics and location of Nok Art and understand how its works can be identified.
Igbo-Ukwu Art
Learn the important features of Igbo-Ukwu Art, including its materials and characteristics.
Ife Art
Study Ife Art and the characteristics that distinguish it from other Nigerian Art traditions.
Benin Art
You should also study Benin Art, including its style, materials, and functions.
Esie, Igala, Jukun, Akwashi and Mbari
The syllabus also expects you to study Esie, Igala, Jukun, Akwashi, and Mbari.
Pay attention to their locations, materials, styles, and functions.
Don’t mix up the different Nigerian Art traditions. Create simple notes that connect each one with its location and major characteristics.
7. Nigerian Crafts
The syllabus includes several traditional Nigerian crafts.
These are:
- Pottery
- Woodwork
- Cloth weaving
- Carving
- Leatherwork
- Metalwork
- Beadwork
- Body decoration
- Mat and cane weaving
You should study the materials and techniques used in these crafts.
Pottery
Learn about pottery, the materials used, and the techniques connected with it.
Woodwork and Carving
You should understand woodwork and carving and know how they are represented in Nigerian crafts.
Cloth Weaving
Study cloth weaving and the materials and techniques involved.
Leatherwork and Metalwork
Learn the basic materials, processes, and characteristics associated with leatherwork and metalwork.
Beadwork, Body Decoration, Mat and Cane Weaving
You should also study these forms of Nigerian craft and understand their materials, techniques, uses, and locations where relevant.
8. Contemporary Nigerian Art and Artists
The syllabus then moves from traditional Art to the development of contemporary Nigerian Arts and artists.
This includes Art schools and groups such as:
- Zaria
- Nsukka
- Osogbo group
You should understand their influence on Nigerian Art.
9. Nigerian Artists and Art Educators
The syllabus specifically lists several Nigerian artists and Art educators:
- Aina Onabolu
- Ben Enwonwu
- S. I. Wangboje
- Jimoh Akolo
- Dele Jegede
You should study their works, specializations, techniques, and styles.
The syllabus expects you to assess the artists in terms of their works, specializations, techniques, and styles.
When studying an artist, don’t stop at the name. Ask: What did this person create? What style or technique is associated with the person?
10. Museums, Galleries and Art Centres
You should also study the functions of:
- Museums
- Galleries
- Art centres
- Art institutions
The syllabus expects you to understand their impact on the development of Art.
You should know how these places support the preservation, display, development, and appreciation of Art.
11. Nigerian Art Institutions and Organizations
The syllabus lists several Art institutions and organizations, including:
- Nigerian Society for Education through Arts (NSEA)
- Society for Nigerian Artists (S.N.A)
- National Council for Arts and Culture (N.C.A.C)
You should study their roles and functions and understand their contribution to Art and culture.
12. Major Nigerian Festivals
The syllabus also includes major festivals connected with Nigerian Art and culture.
These include:
- Argungu Fishing Festival
- Eyo
- Egungun
- Iri-ji (New Yam)
- Durbar
- Igue
- Ekpo
- Odo
You should understand the connection between these festivals, Art, and culture.
The syllabus expects you to examine the impact of major festivals on Art and culture.
What You Should Focus on in Section B
This section has many names, places, periods, artists, Art movements, crafts, and festivals. So, I recommend that you organize your notes carefully.
Focus on:
Art periods and styles; Renaissance artists; 19th and 20th century Art movements; traditional African Art; traditional Nigerian Art; Nigerian crafts; contemporary Nigerian artists; Art schools; museums and galleries; Art organizations; and major Nigerian festivals.
The syllabus expects you to compare artists and styles, differentiate Art movements, identify materials and locations, analyse functions and characteristics, trace origins, and assess the influence of Art schools and groups.
Read also: Arts JAMB Syllabus 2026/2027 Download PDF
If you understand the connection between the artist, artwork, style, material, location, and period, this section becomes much easier to revise.
Section C: Artistic Skills, Techniques and Processes
The third part of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028 focuses on practical Art skills. This section covers two-dimensional Art, perspective, sculpture, ceramics, crafts, computer graphics, and the tools, materials, and equipment used in Art.
You should understand what each technique is used for, know the materials involved, and understand how Art tools and equipment are maintained.
1. Two-Dimensional Art
The syllabus includes four main areas of two-dimensional Art:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Graphics
- Textile design
You should study the techniques, skills, and processes used in these areas.
The syllabus places emphasis on tone, composition, and colour application.
Drawing
You should understand the basic skills and techniques used in drawing.
Pay attention to how tone, composition, and other design elements are used when creating a drawing.
Painting
For painting, you should study the techniques and processes involved, especially the proper use and application of colour.
Graphics
You should understand the basic ideas behind graphic Art and the tools and materials used in creating graphic designs.
Textile Design
Textile design is also part of two-dimensional Art.
Study the materials and techniques associated with textile design.
The main thing is to understand how the different techniques are used to create an artwork.
2. Perspective
Perspective is an important topic under Artistic Skills and Techniques.
The syllabus includes several types of perspective:
- Linear perspective
- Angular perspective
- Aerial perspective
- Parallel perspective
You should know the different types and understand how perspective is used to create the appearance of depth.
3. Perspective Terms
You should also understand important terms connected with perspective.
The syllabus lists:
- Foreground
- Picture plane
- Eye-level
- Vanishing point
- Foreshortening
- Optical illusion
- Depth
Foreground
Study the meaning of foreground and how it relates to objects or areas positioned toward the front of a picture.
Picture Plane
You should understand what the picture plane means in perspective.
Eye-Level
Learn how eye-level is used when applying perspective rules.
Vanishing Point
The vanishing point is another important perspective term.
You should understand its role when creating depth in a drawing.
Foreshortening
Study foreshortening and how it is used to represent objects in perspective.
Optical Illusion and Depth
You should also learn how optical illusion and depth relate to perspective.
Don’t only memorize these terms. Learn how they work together when creating a drawing.
4. Sculpture, Ceramics and Crafts
The syllabus also includes:
- Sculpture
- Ceramics
- Crafts
You should study the techniques, skills, and processes connected with these areas.
The syllabus expects candidates to be familiar with the techniques and processes used in these forms of Art.
5. Computer Graphics
Computer graphics is also part of the syllabus.
The specific software listed is CorelDraw.
You should understand its place in computer graphics and be familiar with the basic idea of using computer tools for graphic design.
6. Two-Dimensional Art Tools
You should know the tools used for two-dimensional Art.
The syllabus includes:
- Brushes
- Lino cutters
- Drawing instruments
- Calligraphic pens
- Sharpeners
You should understand the purpose of these tools and how they are maintained.
7. Two-Dimensional Art Materials
The syllabus lists several materials used in two-dimensional Art.
These include:
- Pencils
- Charcoal
- Pastel
- Crayon
- Fixative
- Fabric
- Dyes
- Lino
- Wood blocks
You should know how these materials are used in Art.
Try to connect each material with the type of artwork or technique where it is used.
8. Two-Dimensional Art Equipment
You should also study Art equipment such as:
- Air compressor
- Spray gun
- Enlarger
- Computer
The syllabus expects you to understand how Art equipment is operated and maintained.
9. Improvisation of Art Tools and Materials
Sometimes an artist may need to find alternatives to standard Art tools or materials.
The syllabus includes improvisation of tools, materials, and equipment.
For two-dimensional Art, the examples include:
- Colours
- Brushes
- Calligraphic pens
For three-dimensional Art, the examples include:
- Spatula
- Kiln
- Beater
You should understand the idea of improvising alternatives when the normal tools or materials are not available.
10. Maintenance of Art Tools and Equipment
Taking care of Art tools and equipment is also part of this section.
The syllabus expects you to be able to:
- Maintain tools and Art materials
- Use Art materials and tools
- Operate Art equipment
- Maintain Art equipment
- Improvise alternatives where necessary
For example, when studying a brush, don’t only learn its name. You should also understand how it is used and maintained.
Knowing how to care for Art tools can be just as important as knowing their names.
What You Should Focus on in Section C
When revising this section, focus on four major areas:
Two-dimensional Art; perspective; sculpture, ceramics and crafts; and Art tools, materials, equipment, and improvisation.
Pay special attention to the different types of perspective and their terms because the syllabus specifically expects you to understand and use perspective rules.
You should also know the difference between tools, materials, and equipment.
For example, don’t treat a pencil, charcoal, brush, air compressor, and computer as the same type of Art resource. Learn where each one belongs and what it is used for.
Section D: Art Appreciation, Meaning and Functions of Art in Society
The fourth and final section of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028 focuses on understanding and appreciating Art. It covers natural and man-made aesthetic objects, the meaning and functions of Art, the use of Art in the media, and career opportunities in Visual Arts.
This section helps you understand that Art is not only about drawing and painting; Art also has social, cultural, religious, political, educational, and economic uses.
1. Art Appreciation
The first topic is Art Appreciation.
You should study two main types of aesthetic phenomena:
- Man-made objects
- Natural phenomena
The syllabus gives examples such as architecture and sculpture for man-made objects and Zuma Rock and Ikogosi Warm Springs for natural phenomena.
2. Man-Made Aesthetic Objects
Man-made aesthetic objects are things created by people that have artistic or visual qualities.
The syllabus specifically mentions:
- Architecture
- Sculpture
You should learn how to appreciate their aesthetic qualities.
Ask yourself: What makes an object attractive or interesting to look at?
You should also be able to identify the features that give an artwork or structure its aesthetic value.
3. Natural Aesthetic Phenomena
Art appreciation is not limited to objects made by people.
The syllabus also includes natural phenomena such as:
- Zuma Rock
- Ikogosi Warm Springs
You should understand how natural features can have aesthetic value.
The important point is to know the difference between natural and man-made aesthetic phenomena.
The syllabus expects you to be able to appreciate their aesthetic qualities and differentiate between them.
4. Meaning of Art
You should also study what Art is.
The syllabus expects you to examine the meaning of Art and understand its place in society.
When studying this topic, don’t limit Art to one activity such as drawing.
Think about the different forms of Art you have already studied, including visual, performing, and literary forms.
5. Functions of Art in Society
Art serves different purposes in society.
The syllabus lists these functions:
- Religious
- Social
- Cultural
- Political
- Therapeutic
- Economic
You should understand each of these functions.
Religious Function
Art can be used in connection with religious activities and beliefs.
Study how Art can serve religious needs in society.
Social Function
Art can also serve social purposes.
You should understand how Art can be used to communicate ideas and connect people.
Cultural Function
Art can help represent and preserve culture.
This is especially important when studying Nigerian traditional Art, crafts, festivals, and other cultural expressions.
Political Function
Art can also serve political purposes.
You should understand how Art can communicate political ideas or messages.
Therapeutic Function
The syllabus includes the therapeutic function of Art.
You should know that Art can serve therapeutic needs in society.
Economic Function
Art can also have an economic role.
Artists create works that can be sold or used to provide income. This connects Art with entrepreneurship and employment.
So, when you study the functions of Art, don’t just memorize the six names; understand what each function means.
6. Art in the Media
The syllabus also examines the functions of Art in the media.
Three examples are listed:
- Advertisement
- Education
- Recreation
You should understand how Art is used in these areas.
Art and Advertisement
Art can be used to communicate messages through advertisements.
You should understand the role of visual design in advertising.
Art and Education
Art can also support education.
You should understand how artistic materials and visual communication can be used for educational purposes.
Art and Recreation
Art can provide recreation and entertainment.
You should be able to identify this function and explain how Art can serve recreational needs.
7. Art Entrepreneurship
The final topic in the Art syllabus is Art Entrepreneurship.
This section focuses on job opportunities in Visual Arts.
The syllabus lists several career options, including:
- Ceramist
- Curator
- Textile designer
- Industrial designer
- Sculptor
- Photographer
- Cartoonist
- Illustrator
8. Careers in Visual Arts
You should know the different Visual Arts careers listed in the syllabus and understand what area of Art each career is connected with.
For example, a ceramist works with ceramics, while a sculptor works in sculpture.
A textile designer is connected with textile design, while an illustrator creates illustrations.
The aim is to help you identify the job opportunities available within Visual Arts.
Art is not only something you study in school; it can also become a career.
What You Should Focus on in Section D
For this final section, focus on:
Art appreciation; natural and man-made aesthetic phenomena; the meaning of Art; the functions of Art in society; Art in advertisement, education and recreation; and careers in Visual Arts.
The syllabus expects you to appreciate aesthetic qualities, differentiate natural and man-made phenomena, examine the meaning and functions of Art, use Art to enhance societal values, assess the role of Art in the media, and identify Visual Arts job opportunities.
That completes Section D; Art Appreciation, Meaning and Functions of Art in Society, and Art Entrepreneurship.
You have now covered all four sections of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028:
- Section A; Classification of Art, Elements and Principles of Design
- Section B; Historical Dimensions of Art
- Section C; Artistic Skills, Techniques and Processes
- Section D; Art Appreciation, Meaning and Functions of Art in Society
Important Areas to Study for JAMB Art 2027/2028
You have now covered all four sections of the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028. Before you begin serious revision, let me point out the areas you should pay close attention to.
The Art syllabus covers basic Art knowledge, Art history, Nigerian Art and crafts, practical skills, Art appreciation, and career opportunities in Visual Arts.
Read also: JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Art 2027/2028
1. Understand the Classification of Art
Start with the three major branches of Art:
- Visual Arts
- Performing Arts
- Literary Arts
You should be able to explain the difference between them and give examples.
Don’t just memorize the three names. Understand what makes each branch different.
2. Learn the Elements and Principles of Design
The elements of design include:
Line, colour, shape, form, texture, tone, value, and space.
The principles include:
Balance, rhythm, proportion, harmony, contrast, repetition, dominance, and variety.
You should be able to identify these elements and analyse the principles when looking at artworks.
3. Memorize Important Art Terms
Some Art terms in the syllabus may look unfamiliar at first.
Pay attention to:
- Pigments
- Motif
- Greenware
- Armature
- Silhouette
- Chiaroscuro
- Cire perdue
- Terracotta
Learn the meaning of each term and the area of Art connected with it.
4. Study Art History
You should revise the major periods and movements listed in the syllabus.
These include:
- Prehistoric Art
- Greek Art
- Roman Art
- Medieval Art
- Renaissance Art
- Impressionism
- Realism
- Futurism
- Cubism
- Bauhaus
- Pop Art
- Abstract Expressionism
- Fauvism
You should know the differences between the various Art movements.
5. Pay Close Attention to Renaissance Artists
The syllabus specifically names:
- Giotto Di Bondone
- Michelangelo Buonarroti
- Leonardo da Vinci
- Raphael (Raffaello Santi)
Study their works, styles, techniques, and contributions.
When you see an artist’s name, try to remember the work and style associated with that artist.
6. Study Traditional African Art
The syllabus includes traditional Art from several African groups, including:
Egypt, Ashanti, Dogon, Mossi, Fon, Senufo, Bambara, Mende, Kissi, Bamileke, and Bakumba.
You should study their locations, styles, materials, and characteristics.
7. Give Nigerian Traditional Art Extra Attention
Traditional Nigerian Art is an important part of the syllabus.
The listed traditions include:
- Nok
- Igbo-Ukwu
- Ife
- Benin
- Esie
- Igala
- Jukun
- Akwashi
- Mbari
You should know their origins, locations, materials, styles, functions, and characteristics.
Try to create a simple connection between each Art tradition and its location, materials, and style.
8. Study Nigerian Crafts
You should revise the Nigerian crafts listed in the syllabus:
- Pottery
- Woodwork
- Cloth weaving
- Carving
- Leatherwork
- Metalwork
- Beadwork
- Body decoration
- Mat and cane weaving
For each one, learn the materials and techniques connected with it.
9. Know the Nigerian Artists and Art Schools
The syllabus lists important Nigerian artists and Art educators, including:
- Aina Onabolu
- Ben Enwonwu
- S. I. Wangboje
- Jimoh Akolo
- Dele Jegede
You should also study Art schools and groups such as:
- Zaria
- Nsukka
- Osogbo group
Learn about their influence on the development of Nigerian Art.
10. Don’t Skip Museums, Art Centres and Festivals
You should understand the functions of museums, galleries, Art centres, and Art institutions.
The syllabus also lists organizations such as:
- Nigerian Society for Education through Arts (NSEA)
- Society for Nigerian Artists (S.N.A)
- National Council for Arts and Culture (N.C.A.C)
You should also study the major festivals listed, including:
Argungu Fishing Festival, Eyo, Egungun, Iri-ji (New Yam), Durbar, Igue, Ekpo, and Odo.
11. Practise Perspective
Perspective is an important practical Art topic.
Study:
- Linear perspective
- Angular perspective
- Aerial perspective
- Parallel perspective
Also learn the terms:
Foreground, picture plane, eye-level, vanishing point, foreshortening, optical illusion, and depth.
Don’t just memorize the terms. Understand how they are used in Art.
12. Know Art Tools, Materials and Equipment
The syllabus includes many tools and materials.
You should know the uses of items such as:
Brushes, lino cutters, drawing instruments, calligraphic pens, pencils, charcoal, pastel, crayon, fixative, fabric, dyes, lino, wood blocks, air compressors, spray guns, enlargers, and computers.
You should also know how to maintain Art tools and equipment.
13. Study Art Appreciation
You should understand the difference between natural and man-made aesthetic phenomena.
The syllabus gives examples such as:
- Architecture
- Sculpture
- Zuma Rock
- Ikogosi Warm Springs
Think about what makes each object or natural feature aesthetically interesting.
14. Understand the Functions of Art
The syllabus lists several functions of Art in society:
- Religious
- Social
- Cultural
- Political
- Therapeutic
- Economic
Art also has functions in the media, including:
- Advertisement
- Education
- Recreation
Learn what each function means and how Art serves that purpose.
15. Remember the Art Careers
The syllabus also introduces Art Entrepreneurship.
You should know the Visual Arts career opportunities listed, including:
- Ceramist
- Curator
- Textile designer
- Industrial designer
- Sculptor
- Photographer
- Cartoonist
- Illustrator
This is a good section to revise because the career names are clearly listed in the syllabus.
How to Use the JAMB Area of Concentration for Art
Study the Topics With Their Objectives
Don’t read only the topic headings.
Look at what the syllabus says you should be able to do. Some objectives require you to identify, compare, classify, analyse, assess, differentiate, trace, and evaluate.
This tells you that you need more than simple memorization.
For example, if you study Cubism, you should be able to distinguish it from other Art movements.
If you study Nok Art, you should be able to connect it with its characteristics, materials, and location.
Make Simple Revision Notes
You can make a small table for Art history.
For example:
| Area | What to remember |
|---|---|
| Renaissance | Artists, works and styles |
| Art movements | Characteristics and differences |
| Nigerian Art | Locations, materials and styles |
| Nigerian artists | Works, specializations and techniques |
| Crafts | Materials and techniques |
| Festivals | Names and cultural importance |
This can make revision easier.
Practise Art Analysis
When you look at an artwork, don’t only ask, “What is this?”
Ask yourself:
What materials were used? What style does it show? Which elements of design can I see? Which principles of design are present? What could be the function of the artwork?
This kind of practice can help you develop the analysis skills required by the syllabus.
Frequently Asked Questions About JAMB Art 2027/2028
1. What are the main areas covered in the JAMB Art syllabus?
The syllabus covers Classification of Art, Historical Dimensions of Art, Artistic Skills and Techniques, and Art Appreciation. It also includes the meaning and functions of Art in society and Art Entrepreneurship.
2. Which Nigerian Art traditions are listed in the syllabus?
The syllabus lists Nok, Igbo-Ukwu, Ife, Benin, Esie, Igala, Jukun, Akwashi, and Mbari under Traditional Nigerian Art.
You should study their locations, materials, styles, characteristics, and functions.
3. Which Nigerian artists should I study?
The syllabus specifically lists Aina Onabolu, Ben Enwonwu, S. I. Wangboje, Jimoh Akolo, and Dele Jegede.
Study their works, specializations, techniques, and styles.
4. Are Art movements such as Cubism and Impressionism included?
Yes. The syllabus includes Impressionism, Realism, Futurism, Cubism, Bauhaus, Pop Art, Abstract Expressionism, and Fauvism.
You should learn how to differentiate between these movements and understand their styles and characteristics.
5. Does JAMB Art include career opportunities?
Yes. The Art Entrepreneurship section lists careers such as ceramist, curator, textile designer, industrial designer, sculptor, photographer, cartoonist, and illustrator.
You should know these career options and the areas of Visual Arts they relate to.
Conclusion
The JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028 covers a lot, but you can handle it better when you divide the syllabus into its four main sections.
Start with Classification of Art and the Elements and Principles of Design. Then study Art History, African and Nigerian Art, Nigerian crafts, artists, Art movements, and festivals. After that, revise Artistic Skills, Perspective, Tools and Materials, before moving to Art Appreciation, the functions of Art, and Art Entrepreneurship.
Don’t only memorize names. Understand the connection between artists, artworks, materials, techniques, styles, locations, periods, and functions.
Use the syllabus as your checklist. As you finish each topic, go back and ask yourself whether you can identify, compare, classify, or analyse what you have studied.
If this JAMB Area of Concentration for Art 2027/2028 guide is useful, share it with another Art student. You can also comment and tell me the Art topic you want explained next.