Traditional Ingenuity in Ghanaian Atumpan Drum Construction (From Locally Obtainable ‘Cordia Millenii’)

Abstract

The forest abounds in different species of trees that the African wood carver capitalizes on to make artefacts. Design and construction of drums particularly in the form of wood art has been in existence for so many years. The purpose of this article is to highlight on the design of traditional carving of Atumpan drum as an excellent art work; As an artwork, its nature, design elements and production process have been discussed. The selection of appropriate wood and design motifs for production and their symbolism have also been considered. Descriptive research method based on the qualitative research approach was employed. This study shows an important distinction between the seeing, viewing, and liking of a specific piece of art and lack of understanding. The investigation of creativeness in the art requires some theoretical originality to enable the development of an effective research method capable of subtly reporting upon original artistic activity. The study states that traditional methods and approaches of Atumpan drum carving must be revived in order to give room for creativity which is indispensable for any development to happen.

Key words: Drum, Atumpan drum, Body measurement, Carving, Art forms, Classical, Creativity.