Exploring the usage of beads as material for art production in buganda region.

Abstract

Use of beads as material for art production has not been effectively exploited by formally trained artists. There are minimal efforts made in the use of beads as material, especially by untrained artists particularly in rural areas who produce ritual related religious crafts work connected with traditional African social-cultural practices. The study was designed to explore the studio possibilities of experimenting with beads as material for art production among the Baganda. The study analyzed the characteristics of beads as material for art production, their traditional usage in Buganda region, factors affecting the usage of beads as material for art production among Ugandan artists, and produced a body of art work using beads as material. The study was qualitative and used exploratory descriptive methods. It involved 25 respondents whose input was transcribed and developed into art works. The study produced a number works that depict how beads can be used as material for art production. It recommends more research in other materials so as to broaden the spectrum of art materials. It recommends use of other sources of inspiration, more research into use of beads in other disciplines of art. Recommends government participation in developing art in the country.