Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 4 Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols

African Art and Personal Adornment Art Lesson Creating Adinkra SymbolsDetroit Institute of Arts5200 Woodward AvenueDetroit MI 48202(313) 833-7900httpwwwdiaorg

Students will explore the Asante culture and print adinkra symbols

Objectives

1 Students will be able to recognize adinkra cloth and explain the background and history ofadinkra symbols

2 Students will be able to create a larger pattern from a simple repeated geometric design

3 Students will be able to carve and print adinkra symbols

4 Students will be able to explain how adinkra cloth can be used to communicate messages

MCF Curriculum Standards and Benchmarks

Fine Arts

szlig ARTVA1MS3 - Select and use the visual characteristics and organizational principles ofart to communicate ideas

szlig ARTVA2MS1 - Select materials techniques and processes to effectively communicateideas

szlig ARTVA2MS2 - Employ organizational principles and analyze what makes them effectiveor not in the communication of ideas

szlig ARTVA4MS3 - Analyze describe and demonstrate how factors of time and place (suchas climate resources ideas and technology) influence visual characteristics that givemeaning and value to a work of art

BEFORE THE VIDEO

Focusing on Adinkra SymbolsMaterials

szlig [Adinkra Student Information Sheet 1 Introduction to Adinkra] This sheet explains the historymeaning and production of adinkra cloth in Ghana

szlig [Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2 DIA Adinkra Cloth]

szlig [Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3 Interpretation of the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth] This sheetillustrates how a variety of adinkra symbols can be combined to communicate an underlyingmessage

szlig [Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart] This worksheet for studentscontains adinkra symbols and space to write the title source and meaning for each

szlig [Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart]

szlig computer and internet access or media center time

szlig newsprint charcoals black crayon or dark magic markers

(continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 4 Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols

Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols (continued)References

szlig Adler Peter Ashanti New York Thames and Hudson 1999 Offers information about history ofAsante people

szlig Adler Peter African Majesty The Textile Art of the Ashanti and Ewe New York Thames andHudson 1995 Current reference offering pictures as well as text about adinkra textile prints

szlig Caraway Caren African Designs of the Congo Nigeria the Cameroon and the Guinea CoastNew York Stemmer House 1987 Pictorial information showing designs of adinkra cloth as wellas kente cloth

szlig Chadwick Susan J Kente and Adinkra Cloth in Ghana Chadwick 1972 Presents olderhistorical photos of kente and adinkra cloth designs

szlig Clarke Duncan The Art of African Textiles San Diego Thunder Bay Press 1997 Featurescurrent textile designs from Ghana including adinkra and kente cloth works

szlig Horn Diane V African Printed Textile Designs New York Stemmer House 1996 Emphasis ondesign elements used in creating adinkra and kente cloth

szlig Thompson Carol The Asante Kingdom New York Franklin Watts 1998 Historical informationabout Asante people and textile design

Resources

szlig httpwwwwelltemperednetadinkrahtmlsadinkra_indexhtm - West African Wisdom Adinkrasymbols and meanings

szlig httpwwwghanagovghvisitingcultureadinkraphp Lists commonly used Adinkra symbols

szlig httpwwwmarshalleduakanartadinkraclothhtml AkanAdinkra Clothes

Procedure

1 Discuss the purposes symbols and history of adinkra cloth Print copy and distribute AdinkraStudent Information Sheet 1

2 Print copy and distribute Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2] and [Adinkra StudentInformation Sheet 3

3 Divide the classroom into small groups of 3 to 5 students Each group should have an assignedartist recorder and a reporter

4 Pass out 3 sheets of newsprint a stick of charcoal or black crayon and a black magic marker toeach group

5 Assign each group up to 3 symbols to research see the resources and references listed at thebeginning of this plan

6 After researching their assigned symbols each group will share the information they havelearned with the rest of the class The artist in each group sketches each of their assignedsymbols on newsprint to share with the total class while the reporter in each group orallypresents the information The recorder makes sure that she or he records the informationreported for each symbol neatly on the newsprint with a dark magic marker

7 The symbols and written information can be hung on a bulletin board for all to view

8 See Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart to assess studentaccuracy

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 3 of 4 Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols

Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols (continued)

DURING THE VIDEO

African Art and Personal AdornmentSetting a Purpose for Viewing the Broadcast

szlig Encourage students to the think about what they have learned about adinkra cloth

szlig Students should view the broadcast for the purpose of learning more about adinkra and kentecloth and how they can be used to communicate messages

AFTER THE VIDEO

Creating Adinkra Designs

Materials and Equipment

szlig a completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

szlig 9 x 12 newsprint paper

szlig 8 x 11 yellowed parchment paper construction paper or heavy weight paper

szlig black brown and orange poster paint

szlig large plastic container with lid

szlig several small shallow plastic containers

szlig mixing brush

szlig 4 paintbrush

szlig several large potatoes

szlig carving knives

szlig pencils

szlig clean flat surface to work on

szlig newspapers to cover work surfaces

szlig access to a sink for clean-up

szlig paint shirts or aprons

Procedure

Part 1 Teacher Demonstration and Practice

1 Select an adinkra symbol to copy from the Adinkra Symbols Chart

2 Demonstrate the basic procedure for students

3 Slice the potato into equal parts lengthwise

4 Use a pencil to copy or inscribe the adinkra symbol on the flat side of the potato

szlig It is important to draw the symbol large within the confines of the potato to help create asizeable print that will enable you to show design detail

szlig Make sure the design comes to the edge of the potato so you can see where the stamp willprint on the paper

5 Using the paring knife carefully carve around the drawn symbol until you have cut away allunwanted potato to create a raised stamp-like design

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 4 of 4 Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols

Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols (continued)

6 Stress to students that several factors are important when using the paring knife

szlig Always be certain that the potato is held firmly on a flat surface when cutting

szlig Tiny-repetitive serrated cuts will enable the student to cut out large and small areas withease as opposed to cutting out large chunks of potato

szlig Stress the importance of concentration when using a knife

szlig It is important to know at all times where your hand that is holding the potato is in relation towhere you are cutting

szlig Cut the potato using small strokes away from your body

szlig Respect the space of a person who is carving

szlig Be aware of other individuals working around you as you carve

7 Mix a solution of black brown and orange poster paint in a large container The color shouldappear dark like iron-based ink used in making adinkra cloth

8 Use a clean brush to apply the paint solution on the design carved on the potato

9 Holding the uncut side of the potato stamp the image you have carved repeatedly on a sheet ofnewsprint paper to practice

10 Demonstrate how the stamp can be used repeatedly to form a design

Part 2 Printing an Adinkra Design

1 Students should choose one adinkra symbol from the Adinkra Symbols Chart

2 Instruct students that they can use the stamps to create a variety of larger patterns (linesrandom radiating blocks etc) See Adinkra Making Teacher Sample 1 Adinkra Patterns tosee examples of studentsrsquo work

3 Students should cut the design as outlined above

4 Students should use the newsprint for practice purposes and to try out different designs Whenstudents are comfortable with the technique and their design they should print the final designon parchment or heavy paper

5 Ask students to explain the meaning of as many adinkra symbols as they can encouragestudents to learn and memorize them Repeating the meanings of the designs on a daily basiswill help students become more familiar with the symbolism of each

Lesson Designed byBradley D Gravelle Roosevelt High School Wyandotte Public Schools

ltBack to Volume Overview

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 1 ndash Introduction to Adinkra

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 1Introduction to Adinkra

ltBack

History of Adinkra

Adinkra cloths are large pieces of fabric stamped with symbolic designs and patterns Historically

adinkra cloth was considered sacred and was worn exclusively by royalty and spiritual leaders of the

Asante people of Ghana It was worn only during sacred ceremonies rituals and funerals The word

adinkra translates to ldquosay good-byerdquo which relates to the use of the cloth during times of mourning

and at funeral services

Adinkra Symbols

Adinkra cloths and their symbolic designs convey the wearerrsquos economic status social status

heritage and other messages There are more than 500 adinkra symbols which are formed with

abstract shapes They are based on the culturersquos parables proverbs popular sayings cultural values

morals philosophical concepts codes of conduct historical events hairstyles celestial bodies

animals plants and objects Through these symbolic connections the designs refer to deeper

meanings about the culturersquos beliefs philosophies and history Therefore the symbols on an adinkra

cloth can be considered a form of language which can communicate complicated messages

Making Adinkra

Someone who wants a special adinkra cloth commissions an artist to stamp the designs and patterns

on the fabric The stamper offers expertise and guidance for choosing the most appropriate symbols

based on the purpose of the cloth and the identity of the wearer The stamps are made by cutting the

designs on pieces of calabash a type of gourd which are attached to bamboo handles Todayrsquos dark

brown inks are produced by boiling the bark of the badie tree together with iron slag The stamp

designs are dipped in the ink then stamped on the cotton cloth stretched on special printing tables

Because the ink is water-based and could be damaged by water the finished cloth is not to be

washed for at least one year after it is made

Adinkra Today

Although the adinkra tradition is more than two hundred years old it is continually evolving Adinkra

cloths can now be worn by everyone not just royalty Use of the cloth has expanded from its original

use in funerals and offifical ceremonies and is now worn for a variety of social events such as

weddings festivals and initiation rites In addition new symbolsmdashincluding the Mercedes logomdashhave

become popular What do you think a person who wears the Mercedes design on his or her adinkra

cloth today is trying to communicate to others

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2 ndash DIA Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2DIA Adinkra Cloth

ltBack

copy 2000 Detroit Institute of Arts

Adinkra late 1800s to early 1900sAsante people GhanaCottonDIA 199714

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3 ndash Interpreting the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3Interpretation of the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

ltBack

The design of the adinkra cloth in the DIArsquos collection contains six different symbols repreatedover and over in straight lines Based on the types of symbols this piece was probably created forsomeone of high rank within the Asante society of Ghana The symbols refer directly to leadershipand high social position The fine quality the crossed lines (known as ldquonkyimurdquo) indicate that thecloth was made by a highly skilled craftsperson (Note Because cloth is fragile and damagedwhen exposed to light for long periods of time the DIArsquos adinkra cloth is not always on display inthe DIArsquos galleries)

The following chart provides the background behind each symbol found on this cloth

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Adinkrahene

Pronunciation

ah-dink-kra-hen-knee

Considered the king of theadinkra symbols

Authority greatnessprudence firmnessmagnamity

Dwenninnen

Pronunciation

djwin-knee-mann

Based on a ramrsquos horns

Proverb The ram may bullynot with its horns but with itsheart

Strength (in mind body andsoul) humility wisdom andlearning

Musuyidee

Pronunciation

mo-soo-yee-day

Based on a sign to removeevil

Spiritual balance goodfortune good luck sanctityspiritual strength and theuprightness of spirit

Nkotimsefo Mpua

Pronunciation

n-ko-tem-she-foo poo-ah

Based on the hairstyle of thecourt attendants

Loyalty and readiness toserve

Nkyimu

Pronunciation

n-chi-moo

Based on the crosseddivisions made on adinkracloth before printing

Skillfulness and precision

Osram

Pronunciation

o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patienceunderstanding anddetermination applies to theinfluence and effectiveness ofa leader

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 ltBackAdinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 4 of 4 Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols

Art Lesson Creating Adinkra Symbols (continued)

6 Stress to students that several factors are important when using the paring knife

szlig Always be certain that the potato is held firmly on a flat surface when cutting

szlig Tiny-repetitive serrated cuts will enable the student to cut out large and small areas withease as opposed to cutting out large chunks of potato

szlig Stress the importance of concentration when using a knife

szlig It is important to know at all times where your hand that is holding the potato is in relation towhere you are cutting

szlig Cut the potato using small strokes away from your body

szlig Respect the space of a person who is carving

szlig Be aware of other individuals working around you as you carve

7 Mix a solution of black brown and orange poster paint in a large container The color shouldappear dark like iron-based ink used in making adinkra cloth

8 Use a clean brush to apply the paint solution on the design carved on the potato

9 Holding the uncut side of the potato stamp the image you have carved repeatedly on a sheet ofnewsprint paper to practice

10 Demonstrate how the stamp can be used repeatedly to form a design

Part 2 Printing an Adinkra Design

1 Students should choose one adinkra symbol from the Adinkra Symbols Chart

2 Instruct students that they can use the stamps to create a variety of larger patterns (linesrandom radiating blocks etc) See Adinkra Making Teacher Sample 1 Adinkra Patterns tosee examples of studentsrsquo work

3 Students should cut the design as outlined above

4 Students should use the newsprint for practice purposes and to try out different designs Whenstudents are comfortable with the technique and their design they should print the final designon parchment or heavy paper

5 Ask students to explain the meaning of as many adinkra symbols as they can encouragestudents to learn and memorize them Repeating the meanings of the designs on a daily basiswill help students become more familiar with the symbolism of each

Lesson Designed byBradley D Gravelle Roosevelt High School Wyandotte Public Schools

ltBack to Volume Overview

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 1 ndash Introduction to Adinkra

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 1Introduction to Adinkra

ltBack

History of Adinkra

Adinkra cloths are large pieces of fabric stamped with symbolic designs and patterns Historically

adinkra cloth was considered sacred and was worn exclusively by royalty and spiritual leaders of the

Asante people of Ghana It was worn only during sacred ceremonies rituals and funerals The word

adinkra translates to ldquosay good-byerdquo which relates to the use of the cloth during times of mourning

and at funeral services

Adinkra Symbols

Adinkra cloths and their symbolic designs convey the wearerrsquos economic status social status

heritage and other messages There are more than 500 adinkra symbols which are formed with

abstract shapes They are based on the culturersquos parables proverbs popular sayings cultural values

morals philosophical concepts codes of conduct historical events hairstyles celestial bodies

animals plants and objects Through these symbolic connections the designs refer to deeper

meanings about the culturersquos beliefs philosophies and history Therefore the symbols on an adinkra

cloth can be considered a form of language which can communicate complicated messages

Making Adinkra

Someone who wants a special adinkra cloth commissions an artist to stamp the designs and patterns

on the fabric The stamper offers expertise and guidance for choosing the most appropriate symbols

based on the purpose of the cloth and the identity of the wearer The stamps are made by cutting the

designs on pieces of calabash a type of gourd which are attached to bamboo handles Todayrsquos dark

brown inks are produced by boiling the bark of the badie tree together with iron slag The stamp

designs are dipped in the ink then stamped on the cotton cloth stretched on special printing tables

Because the ink is water-based and could be damaged by water the finished cloth is not to be

washed for at least one year after it is made

Adinkra Today

Although the adinkra tradition is more than two hundred years old it is continually evolving Adinkra

cloths can now be worn by everyone not just royalty Use of the cloth has expanded from its original

use in funerals and offifical ceremonies and is now worn for a variety of social events such as

weddings festivals and initiation rites In addition new symbolsmdashincluding the Mercedes logomdashhave

become popular What do you think a person who wears the Mercedes design on his or her adinkra

cloth today is trying to communicate to others

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2 ndash DIA Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2DIA Adinkra Cloth

ltBack

copy 2000 Detroit Institute of Arts

Adinkra late 1800s to early 1900sAsante people GhanaCottonDIA 199714

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3 ndash Interpreting the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3Interpretation of the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

ltBack

The design of the adinkra cloth in the DIArsquos collection contains six different symbols repreatedover and over in straight lines Based on the types of symbols this piece was probably created forsomeone of high rank within the Asante society of Ghana The symbols refer directly to leadershipand high social position The fine quality the crossed lines (known as ldquonkyimurdquo) indicate that thecloth was made by a highly skilled craftsperson (Note Because cloth is fragile and damagedwhen exposed to light for long periods of time the DIArsquos adinkra cloth is not always on display inthe DIArsquos galleries)

The following chart provides the background behind each symbol found on this cloth

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Adinkrahene

Pronunciation

ah-dink-kra-hen-knee

Considered the king of theadinkra symbols

Authority greatnessprudence firmnessmagnamity

Dwenninnen

Pronunciation

djwin-knee-mann

Based on a ramrsquos horns

Proverb The ram may bullynot with its horns but with itsheart

Strength (in mind body andsoul) humility wisdom andlearning

Musuyidee

Pronunciation

mo-soo-yee-day

Based on a sign to removeevil

Spiritual balance goodfortune good luck sanctityspiritual strength and theuprightness of spirit

Nkotimsefo Mpua

Pronunciation

n-ko-tem-she-foo poo-ah

Based on the hairstyle of thecourt attendants

Loyalty and readiness toserve

Nkyimu

Pronunciation

n-chi-moo

Based on the crosseddivisions made on adinkracloth before printing

Skillfulness and precision

Osram

Pronunciation

o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patienceunderstanding anddetermination applies to theinfluence and effectiveness ofa leader

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 ltBackAdinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 1 ndash Introduction to Adinkra

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 1Introduction to Adinkra

ltBack

History of Adinkra

Adinkra cloths are large pieces of fabric stamped with symbolic designs and patterns Historically

adinkra cloth was considered sacred and was worn exclusively by royalty and spiritual leaders of the

Asante people of Ghana It was worn only during sacred ceremonies rituals and funerals The word

adinkra translates to ldquosay good-byerdquo which relates to the use of the cloth during times of mourning

and at funeral services

Adinkra Symbols

Adinkra cloths and their symbolic designs convey the wearerrsquos economic status social status

heritage and other messages There are more than 500 adinkra symbols which are formed with

abstract shapes They are based on the culturersquos parables proverbs popular sayings cultural values

morals philosophical concepts codes of conduct historical events hairstyles celestial bodies

animals plants and objects Through these symbolic connections the designs refer to deeper

meanings about the culturersquos beliefs philosophies and history Therefore the symbols on an adinkra

cloth can be considered a form of language which can communicate complicated messages

Making Adinkra

Someone who wants a special adinkra cloth commissions an artist to stamp the designs and patterns

on the fabric The stamper offers expertise and guidance for choosing the most appropriate symbols

based on the purpose of the cloth and the identity of the wearer The stamps are made by cutting the

designs on pieces of calabash a type of gourd which are attached to bamboo handles Todayrsquos dark

brown inks are produced by boiling the bark of the badie tree together with iron slag The stamp

designs are dipped in the ink then stamped on the cotton cloth stretched on special printing tables

Because the ink is water-based and could be damaged by water the finished cloth is not to be

washed for at least one year after it is made

Adinkra Today

Although the adinkra tradition is more than two hundred years old it is continually evolving Adinkra

cloths can now be worn by everyone not just royalty Use of the cloth has expanded from its original

use in funerals and offifical ceremonies and is now worn for a variety of social events such as

weddings festivals and initiation rites In addition new symbolsmdashincluding the Mercedes logomdashhave

become popular What do you think a person who wears the Mercedes design on his or her adinkra

cloth today is trying to communicate to others

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2 ndash DIA Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2DIA Adinkra Cloth

ltBack

copy 2000 Detroit Institute of Arts

Adinkra late 1800s to early 1900sAsante people GhanaCottonDIA 199714

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3 ndash Interpreting the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3Interpretation of the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

ltBack

The design of the adinkra cloth in the DIArsquos collection contains six different symbols repreatedover and over in straight lines Based on the types of symbols this piece was probably created forsomeone of high rank within the Asante society of Ghana The symbols refer directly to leadershipand high social position The fine quality the crossed lines (known as ldquonkyimurdquo) indicate that thecloth was made by a highly skilled craftsperson (Note Because cloth is fragile and damagedwhen exposed to light for long periods of time the DIArsquos adinkra cloth is not always on display inthe DIArsquos galleries)

The following chart provides the background behind each symbol found on this cloth

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Adinkrahene

Pronunciation

ah-dink-kra-hen-knee

Considered the king of theadinkra symbols

Authority greatnessprudence firmnessmagnamity

Dwenninnen

Pronunciation

djwin-knee-mann

Based on a ramrsquos horns

Proverb The ram may bullynot with its horns but with itsheart

Strength (in mind body andsoul) humility wisdom andlearning

Musuyidee

Pronunciation

mo-soo-yee-day

Based on a sign to removeevil

Spiritual balance goodfortune good luck sanctityspiritual strength and theuprightness of spirit

Nkotimsefo Mpua

Pronunciation

n-ko-tem-she-foo poo-ah

Based on the hairstyle of thecourt attendants

Loyalty and readiness toserve

Nkyimu

Pronunciation

n-chi-moo

Based on the crosseddivisions made on adinkracloth before printing

Skillfulness and precision

Osram

Pronunciation

o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patienceunderstanding anddetermination applies to theinfluence and effectiveness ofa leader

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 ltBackAdinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

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Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

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Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

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Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2 ndash DIA Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 2DIA Adinkra Cloth

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copy 2000 Detroit Institute of Arts

Adinkra late 1800s to early 1900sAsante people GhanaCottonDIA 199714

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3 ndash Interpreting the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3Interpretation of the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

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The design of the adinkra cloth in the DIArsquos collection contains six different symbols repreatedover and over in straight lines Based on the types of symbols this piece was probably created forsomeone of high rank within the Asante society of Ghana The symbols refer directly to leadershipand high social position The fine quality the crossed lines (known as ldquonkyimurdquo) indicate that thecloth was made by a highly skilled craftsperson (Note Because cloth is fragile and damagedwhen exposed to light for long periods of time the DIArsquos adinkra cloth is not always on display inthe DIArsquos galleries)

The following chart provides the background behind each symbol found on this cloth

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Adinkrahene

Pronunciation

ah-dink-kra-hen-knee

Considered the king of theadinkra symbols

Authority greatnessprudence firmnessmagnamity

Dwenninnen

Pronunciation

djwin-knee-mann

Based on a ramrsquos horns

Proverb The ram may bullynot with its horns but with itsheart

Strength (in mind body andsoul) humility wisdom andlearning

Musuyidee

Pronunciation

mo-soo-yee-day

Based on a sign to removeevil

Spiritual balance goodfortune good luck sanctityspiritual strength and theuprightness of spirit

Nkotimsefo Mpua

Pronunciation

n-ko-tem-she-foo poo-ah

Based on the hairstyle of thecourt attendants

Loyalty and readiness toserve

Nkyimu

Pronunciation

n-chi-moo

Based on the crosseddivisions made on adinkracloth before printing

Skillfulness and precision

Osram

Pronunciation

o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patienceunderstanding anddetermination applies to theinfluence and effectiveness ofa leader

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 ltBackAdinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 1 Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3 ndash Interpreting the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

Adinkra Student Information Sheet 3Interpretation of the DIArsquos Adinkra Cloth

ltBack

The design of the adinkra cloth in the DIArsquos collection contains six different symbols repreatedover and over in straight lines Based on the types of symbols this piece was probably created forsomeone of high rank within the Asante society of Ghana The symbols refer directly to leadershipand high social position The fine quality the crossed lines (known as ldquonkyimurdquo) indicate that thecloth was made by a highly skilled craftsperson (Note Because cloth is fragile and damagedwhen exposed to light for long periods of time the DIArsquos adinkra cloth is not always on display inthe DIArsquos galleries)

The following chart provides the background behind each symbol found on this cloth

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Adinkrahene

Pronunciation

ah-dink-kra-hen-knee

Considered the king of theadinkra symbols

Authority greatnessprudence firmnessmagnamity

Dwenninnen

Pronunciation

djwin-knee-mann

Based on a ramrsquos horns

Proverb The ram may bullynot with its horns but with itsheart

Strength (in mind body andsoul) humility wisdom andlearning

Musuyidee

Pronunciation

mo-soo-yee-day

Based on a sign to removeevil

Spiritual balance goodfortune good luck sanctityspiritual strength and theuprightness of spirit

Nkotimsefo Mpua

Pronunciation

n-ko-tem-she-foo poo-ah

Based on the hairstyle of thecourt attendants

Loyalty and readiness toserve

Nkyimu

Pronunciation

n-chi-moo

Based on the crosseddivisions made on adinkracloth before printing

Skillfulness and precision

Osram

Pronunciation

o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patienceunderstanding anddetermination applies to theinfluence and effectiveness ofa leader

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 ltBackAdinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 ltBackAdinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

(Continued)

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1 Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Student Worksheet 1Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 1 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1 Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Akoma

Pronunciation

ah-ko-mah

Saying

Be patient take heart

Love goodwill patiencefaithfulness fondnessendurance and consistency

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Osram

Pronunciation o-srahm

Based on the moon

Proverb The moon does notgo round the world just at ago (hastily)

Faith patience understandingand determination applies tothe influence and effectivenessof a leader

(Continued)

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack

Wayne RESArsquos Cultural Collaborative for Learning

Page 2 of 2 Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart

Adinkra Making Teacher Guide 1Completed Adinkra Symbols Chart (continued)

Adinkra Symbol Based on Symbolizes

Osram ne nsoromma

Pronunciation o-srahm nay n-soar-row-mah

Proverb The North PoleStar has a deep love formarriage She is always inthe sky waiting for the returnof the moon her husband

Feminine symbol forfaithfulness fondnessharmony love and loyalty

Owuo Atwedee

Pronunciation owuoah-twee-dee

Proverb All men shall climbthe ladder of death

Reminder to live a good life

Sankofa

Pronunication sang-ko-fah

Proverb It is not forbidden toreturn and fetch it when youforget

Wisdom of learning from thepast to build for the future

Tabono

Pronunication tah-bow-no

Based on the paddle or oarsof a canoe

Strength confidencepersistence

Information collected from Willis W Bruce The Adinkra Dictionary A Visual Primer on the Language of AdinkraWashington DC The Pyramid Complex 1998

ltBack