The Role and Importance of Sculpture in the Ga Culture: A Case Study at the Ga-Mashie Traditional Area
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Date
2012-11-21
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Abstract
Archaeological findings at Chorkor and Omsby road in the Greater Accra Region have revealed
certain symbols and relief sculptures of the lifestyles of the people of Ga dating back to the 11th
century. The study therefore sought to find out the role and the importance of sculpture in the Ga
culture. Interviews, observation and questionnaire administration of qualitative research method
were used in gathering data for this research. The investigation involved the elders of the Ga
people to document how and why certain sculpture works are displayed at the entrance of
shrines, chief palaces, and various areas in the community. The thesis has recorded numerous
sculpture works such as drums, thrones, linguist staffs, and monuments, busts, stools, etc. as the
major findings as well as their functions. The main findings revealed that these sculpture works
have many roles to play in the economy, social life, political rule, medicine, workshop, religion
and spiritual growth of the people. It is the main recommendation of this research that sculpture
works of the Ga tradition must be displayed in art galleries for the nation’s development. Also,
the Ga Mantse, Art Council, Museums and Monuments Board should indulge in the training of the youth to develop positive attitudes towards Sculpture works in the Ga-Mashie traditional area in order to promote art.
Description
A thesis submitted to the School of Graduate Studies of the
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in African Art and Culture.