Analyse the Aesthetic Concepts of the Socio-Cultural Significance of Adire in Southwestern Nigeria
Abstract
For centuries, the ceremonial and everyday elements of Adire, a Yoruba tie-and-dye textile in shades of bold blue lustered with vibrant hues true to African cultural standards have embodied much more than just major symbolism. Taking a deep dive into the aesthetic notions and socio-cultural importance of Adire in Southwest Nigeria, this research is centered around its historical transformation since inception to present day. The study gathered data via: Semi-structured interviews with the artisans and quantitative surveys conducted within the community. The research shows that the aesthetic principles of Adire are embedded in Yoruba cosmology, social groups and art traditions. The indigo-dyed backgrounds and carefully stitched designs on Adire textiles are adorned with motifs and patterns that convey intricate storylines, cultural meaning systems, religious beliefs or historical undertones. A mean outcome of 4.25 from the survey confirms to a great extent that Adire has gained widespread cultural prevalence and serves as an instrument for social identification, unity and cohesion This paper therefore posits that Adire is a living, fluid cultural object constantly responding to the influences of its environment (contemporary or not), without undermining core aesthetic and socio-cultural values. To this end, it unconventionally calls for a continuation of Adire studies in the social sciences and encourages its incorporation into school curricula so that further educational avenues can be explored whereby we pass on an exemplary cultural heritage.
KEYWORDS: Aesthetic concepts, Socio-cultural significance, Textile Arts, Yoruba Adire culture
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