Incorporation of Traditional Symbols of Upper East Region of Ghana into Fugu Fabrics

Abstract

This research work sought to identify and discuss the socio-economic and cultural relevance of fugu (smock) fabrics, study the extent to which traditional symbols of the Upper East Region of Ghana are incorporated in fugu fabrics, and also design and produce fugu fabrics with selected traditional symbols of Upper East Region of Ghana incorporated in them. The researchers adopted the studio based research approach as it is deemed the most appropriate for this type of research project. It involved the descriptive and exploratory methods of research. The purposive and quota sampling methods were employed in this research which made it possible to reach the fugu fabric weavers, users of the fugu, sellers of fugu and fugu fabrics for needed data. A sample size of fifty (50) was used and data gathered were obtained through the use of questionnaire and interview. The researchers found that fugu fabrics contribute a lot in the cultural and socio-economic lives of the people in the Upper East Region of Ghana as they use them for funerals, festivals, marriage ceremonies, and it also help them earn good living through occupations such as weaving, sewing, and sale of smocks. Respondents also, generally, expressed interest in the incorporation of traditional symbols in the fugu fabrics of Ghana. The study concluded that the incorporation of traditional symbols in the fugu fabrics of the Upper East Region of Ghana will promote the cultural value of the products, enhance their aesthetic appeal, and also attract more people to purchase them. It is, therefore, imperative for fugu fabric producers and textile artists, in general, to turn attention to the fugu business and work towards the inculturation of fugu fabrics with traditional symbols of Ghana to make the industry a vibrant and more attractive one. The researchers also recommend their newly designed fugu symbolic fabrics for use.