Visual expressions of selected artifacts from Kasubi royal tombs for fabric decoration

Abstract

The study was carried out under the title; "Visual expressions of selected artifacts from Kasubi royal tombs for fabric decoration". The purpose of this study was to examine selected artifacts from Kasubi royal tombs and explore studio possibilities of using the selected artifacts for production of fabric designs, for the purpose of contribution to visual documentation and preservation of Ganda cultural heritage. The research was conducted under the following objectives; to examine the artifacts from the Kasubi royal tombs that would aid in fabric studio practice, to develop designs from the selected artifacts from Kasubi tombs for fabric decoration. To studiously produce fabric works with visual expressions from selected artifacts of Kasubi royal tombs for fabric decoration. The researcher categorized the artifacts in the following themes; architecture (Muzibu Azaala Mpaga), weaponry (shields' and spears), crafts (mats and baskets) and music instruments (royal drums and gourd rattles). These were used to generate the visual ideas in fabric decoration. The study arises from the researcher's' observation and concerns that fabric decoration as a form of visual documentation for different Ganda cultural artifacts has not been fully exploited by fabric designers as compared to painting and sculpture forms of visual documentation. Against this the researcher took a keen interest in studying the Kasubi royal tombs and selected artifacts, to arouse their visual appreciation for fabric decoration. In the process of this study the researcher explored with fabric techniques such as: air-jet spray painting, applique and patch work, tie and dye, hand stitching and bleaching. Media used included, acrylic paint, fast dry paint, threads, bleach, and selected found materials. The end product of the research are wall hangings which can be placed in public and private wall spaces. Based on the qualitative and explorative research design, the researcher analyzed data from both the researchers design processes and respondents point of views. The research findings reveal that Ganda artifacts have a rich cultural content that needs to be visually documented for future use by generations to come. The recommendation of the study is a general call to visual artist to explore with the use of contemporary technique of design production in visual documentation of different cultural artifacts to promote, preserve and document their importance and existence, for this will create awareness and appreciation for Ganda cultural heritage.