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ADINKRA: THE LANGUAGE OF PATTERN |
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Adinkra is an Ashanti textile printing tradition dating to at least the 17th century. Stamps are carved from pieces of used calabash, each symbol conveying a proverbial meaning that reinforces cultural values and knowledge. Traditionally the cloth was associated with royalty and worn at funerals. The pattern selected by the wearer was intentional and intended to carry a message to the viewer. Today, Adinkra symbols still speak a visual language used and understood by many Ghanaians. Master printers and carvers from the Ashanti Region teach program participants the arts and history of carving and printing Adinkra. They live in one of the two remaining traditional printing villages, and continue to practice the craft their family has engaged in for many generations. |
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KENTE CLOTH: THE FABRIC OF KINGS |
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Kente cloth is a form of strip weaving specific to the Ashanti and Ewe peoples of Ghana. Like Adinkra, kente cloth was originally worn only by royalty, and associated with ceremonial and formal occasions. It is characterized by festive bands of color and geometric patterns that have symbolic, historic, and proverbial meanings. Traditionally kente cloth was woven by men, but today, women are also encouraged to practice the tradition, learning as apprentices in collective and individual work shops. Kente cloth has become a symbol of national pride for Ghanaians. The largest West African Ewe kente cloth market is located a short distnace from the Volta Center. It is an early morning wholesale market where weavers, loom makers, and yarn sellers ply their trade. |
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Ewe Kente Weavers |
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Ewe Kente Cloth |
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Ashanti Kente Cloth |
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