Ewe Proverbs - A Source of Imagery for Textile Designs

Abstract

There have been several ways of generating ideas for textile designs and these comprise ideas from nature, environment and coined symbols from sayings especially from the “Akan” language where the “adinkra” symbols originated. These “adinkra” motifs or imagery have been excessively used and there is the need for new ones to be generated. It is upon this, that the researcher is exploring selected proverbs of the Ewe people to generate motifs to be used for both batik and textile print designs. The current symbols used by students and professional craftsmen were observed and examined to have first-hand information about their meaning and usage.  The study collected and identified Ewe proverbs through opinion leaders and documented literature, which were developed into symbols or imagery suitable and appropriate for batik and textile design prints. Interview guide was used to collect data from students and stakeholders. The finding indicates that proverbs can be a source of inspiration for designers when generated into symbols.  Secondly, the symbols when converted into product designs such as textiles, leather, ceramics, sculpture and painting works will bring variety to the market. Lastly, the symbols can serve as a document for referencing for students, professionals and craftsmen. The study shows that proverbs can be a source for generating symbols for textile design and other fields of art.

Keywords: Adinkra, craftsmen, proverbs, imagery and symbols.