Artistic Representations of Gender in Sirigu Domestic Dwellings in the Upper East Region of Ghana

Abstract

The Sirigu architectonic tradition consists of sculptured buildings with geometric patterns in mainly red, white and black. Scarifications on the faces of the indigenes also consist of intricate geometric incisions. The artistic traditions of the women of Sirigu play a vital role in their cultural identity, therefore the women demonstrate commitment not only to maintain their artistic uniqueness but also to brand and market it both locally and in the international tourist market. Research on Nankana architecture suggests a history of correlation between dwellings, gender and scarifications. Recent studies have sought to balance the static structural and symbolic analysis with a more dynamic approach, which addresses both continuities and change in artistic representation. Yet interest in gender has been limited to the functions of space and gender, with little interest in the symbolism of space and motifs. Therefore, this study explores the gender dynamics in domestic dwellings of Sirigu, analyzing the relationships between the art of wall decorations and scarification with a focus on the visual analysis and symbolic meanings of motifs and their functions as they reflect gender, continuities and change and the economics of women’s arts. 54 respondents purposely sampled from all five communities in Sirigu, namely, Guwonkor, Busongor, Wugingo, Nyangolgo, and Basengo were interviewed. Qualitative analysis of data from interviews, observations, photographic, archival and oral sources led to the conclusion that Sirigu wall paintings and scarifications as well as their rituals are symbolic representations of their construction of gender and that transformations and commercialization of women’s arts has inspired the participation of men in it. This study recommends more in-depth research and documentation of architectonic and scarification traditions of all ethnic groups in Ghana with similar practices since these art forms are either transforming rapidly or disappearing altogether.