Exploiting techniques in Asante indigenous hand embroidery for Adinkra cloth production
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Date
2012-06-19
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Abstract
Adinkra cloth production is one of the common textiles surface designing found among
Asantes today. Adinkra cloths are becoming increasingly useful and people are now
developing interest on the use and preservation of this traditional textile. Even though
Adinkra cloths serve as a representation of the history, culture, norms and values of the
Asante people in symbolic form, this area of Asante traditional textile has not been given
enough recognition. Moreover, there are other aspects of the “Nwomu” technique that
needs to be exploited. In view of this, the study identified and developed some design
concepts as well as incorporates symbols and motifs in the Adinkra cloth using the
“Nwomu” technique. Comprehensive studies were made on the origin of Adinkra cloths
as well as the art of “Nwomu” among Asantes. Design concepts were developed from
existing “Nwomu” techniques, geometric shapes, totems, kente designs as well as adinkra
symbols. These designs were carefully selected and exploited to suit the purpose of the
study. Some samples were also produced to give more understanding on the subject. The
study employed both descriptive and experimental research methods based on the
qualitative research approach. As part of the study the researcher observed that the
symbols and colours used in the production of Adinkra cloths are representation of the
cultural values of the people of Asante and not fully abstracted objects. Indigenous cloths
such as Birisi, Kobene, Kuntukuni, and Nwomu are all part of “Adinkra cloth collections”.
A study into indigenous cloths such as the Adinkra cloth should be encouraged in
vocational schools, colleges and tertiary institutions.
Description
A Thesis submitted to the School of Graduate Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Fine Arts in Textile Design