Chapter 1
The wisdom of Adinkra symbols
Chapter 2
Woven stories of Kente and mudcloth
Chapter 3
Geometry and power in Southern African patterns
YOUR GOAL
Master of African visual motifs
Ch 2 · Woven stories of Kente and mudcloth
gus Kente and Mudcloth Textiles
From Ghana's Kente, Mali's mud-dyed art, Patterns tell stories, Straight from the heart.
Fun Fact
Kente spider legend: Legend says Kente weaving was inspired by two hunters watching a clever spider weave its web in the forest.
Glossary
kente (noun)
A vibrant, hand-woven Ghanaian fabric made of silk and cotton strips, traditionally worn by royalty. Each color and pattern in the cloth tells a unique story or represents an important value, like gold for wealth or green for renewal. Wearing a kente stole at graduation is a modern way students honor their heritage and celebrate their achievements.
A vibrant, hand-woven Ghanaian fabric made of silk and cotton strips, traditionally worn by royalty. Each color and pattern in the cloth tells a unique story or represents an important value, like gold for wealth or green for renewal. Wearing a kente stole at graduation is a modern way students honor their heritage and celebrate their achievements.
Quiz
In the traditional Ghanaian art of weaving Kente cloth, which color is most commonly used to symbolize royalty, wealth, and spiritual purity?
Glossary
motif (noun)
A recurring visual pattern or symbol in traditional African cloths like Kente and mudcloth that communicates cultural stories and wisdom. It's like wearing a page of history on your sleeve.
A recurring visual pattern or symbol in traditional African cloths like Kente and mudcloth that communicates cultural stories and wisdom. It's like wearing a page of history on your sleeve.
Quiz
In traditional Malian mudcloth (Bògòlanfini), what does the geometric pattern known as 'The Brave Man’s Belt' signify about the person wearing it?
Quiz
What natural ingredient causes the chemical reaction that dyes Malian Bogolanfini mudcloth black?
Quiz
According to West African legend, what creature inspired the intricate weaving patterns of Kente cloth?