Promoting cultural identity: graphical illustrations of Kinyomo clan totem

Abstract

Cultural identity is a worldwide practice that is promoted for purposes of the continuity of societal valves and perseveration of tradition for sustainable development. The present study aimed at developing graphical illustrations derived from Kinyomo clan totem so as to communicate traditional norms and values, preserve the kinyomo totem, and as a result promote cultural identity. The objectives of the study were; (l) To examine the totems of Baganda and their relevancy in regard to social values, (2) To develop graphical illustrations of kinyomo totem to be used in communication of values, norms and traditions of kinyomo clan and (3) To produce samples of graphical illustrations inspired by kinyomo totem to communicate the va lues, norms and traditions. The study employed a case study design and was carried out in Kyasa- Bbudu Masaka district among families that subscribe to Kinyomo totem who were purposively selected. A total of 14 respondents including elders, designers, environmentalists, and studentsparticipated in the present study. Data was collected using in-depth interviews and analyzed through studio experimentation. Findings revealed that many people only hear of the clans and totems which they associate with but cannot physically identify their clan totem identification items. Findings further revealed that modernization and urbanization habitats of most clan totem species and they are facing extinction. On the other hand, studio experimentations revealed that a lthough knowledge about the clan totems, values and apprec iation have been tampered with by modernity, developing graphical illustrations that can be used on different objects enables the community to appreciate their cultural identity. The study recommends further studies and research on how cultura l identity items can be made popular among the modem society.