Department of Fine Art

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12504/215

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Embedded meaning of traditional art forms used in cultural practices of Baganda of central Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2018-08) Kekimuri, Joan
Art forms play a pivotal role in strengthening community connections through open dialogue and can help in bridging cultural distinctions. They are used extensively by societies for creativity, imagination and moderating complexities of globalization. Art forms in different communities continue to evolve and increase the sense of collective identity and efficacy. In Africa art forms used by different communities are embedded with meaning that communicate specific messages to the users. In Buganda there were and are several art forms used in traditional practices. However, globalization continues to threaten cultural diversity due to technological advances which change the artforms’ embedded meaning. This study establishes how traditional art forms used in Baganda cultural practices historically developed; it goes on to analyze the embedded meaning of traditional Baganda art forms used in cultural practices in reference to their application; it evaluates how globalization has influenced the perceptions of Baganda People towards art forms used in their cultural practices; it examines how visual narratives have developed which are enlivened by the embedded meaning of selected art forms used in Baganda cultural practices. This work adopts an ethnographic study design guided by the theory of culture and behavior developed by Triandis; it also relies upon the hybridity advanced by Bahbah as amalgamated with other theories. Seventy participants using purposive and snowball techniques participated in this study. Findings indicate that the embedded meaning in traditional art forms which, in earlier times enabled communities to function, is today continuously neglected in favour of eurocentric ideologies. This modernity traumatizes communities such that they lose their long-standing identity, creativity and imagination. Despite these trends, communities in Buganda still consult long-standing cultural practices and inhabit cultural art forms. Since Buganda communities attach importance to these art forms it is important that they not be neglected. Upholding and recording our cultures for posterity through the visual arts will ensure that traditional cultural objects are promoted as tools embedded with meaning that address the concerns of particular communitie
Enhancement of Hands-on Teaching and Learning Experiences through Project-Based Learning among Interior Design Students
(Africa Journal of Technical & Vocational Education & Training (AfriTVET), 2019-10) Lydia, Nansubuga; Nabaggala, Justine; Opit, Elizabeth
This paper presents findings from a study conducted in the Department of Art and Industrial Design, Kyambogo University. The study was premised on the theoretical concepts of “learning to learn” and “learning by doing” as vocational education and training (VET) models that guarantee students’ full participation towards the development of professional competence. A participatory action research model was used to carry out this study using qualitative methods of data collection and analysis. Data was collected from thirty-five (35) study participants consisting of 25 students, three Alumnus, four instructors, one technician, one departmental administrator and one expert from the world of work. Individual interviews, document analysis, observation and focused group discussion meetings were used to provide descriptive data for content analysis. Study participants revealed that the graduates of interior design lacked both professional confidence and practical competencies due to inadequate practice. Consequently, the stakeholders democratically identified two intervention strategies for enhancing students’ hands on experiences; a skills lab and the project-based learning approach. The study’s intervention strategies were progressively implemented over a period of one year. The evaluation findings of this study revealed that the interventions enabled students to acquire confidence, more knowledge and professional competencies in interior designing. Project-based learning enhanced team work among all the stakeholders and individual learner’s participation in project tasks, thus the success of the study.
Drawing as a means of preserving the values of Konzo traditional mortar and pestle : a case study of Nyakasanga village in Kasese district, Western Uganda
(Kyambogo University, 2020-03) Baluku, Gilbert
The study was carried out under the title; “Drawing as a means of preserving the values of the Konzo traditional mortar and pestle.” Throughout history, mortars and pestles have varied in; size, style, and material depending on their purposes. The purpose of the study was to produce drawings through studio experimentation as a mean for preserving the usage and values of the Konzo traditional mortar and pestle in Kasese Region, Western Uganda. The study was conducted under three objectives; to examine the values of the Konzo traditional mortar and pestle, to find out whether the practices of making and observing Konzo traditional mortar and pestle are preserved as well as to produce drawings for preservation of values of the Konzo traditional mortar and pestle. The study involved 10 respondents who were purposively selected for their knowledge and expertise on Konzo traditional mortar and pestle whose respective information guided the studio process. The methodology used was purposive and exploratory approach. The exploration in this study involved producing drawings with different surfaces and media; Surfaces included bond papers, craft paper, canvas, plywood, and mounting cards. Drawing techniques which were tried out during experimentation included wavy, cross hatching, scrabbling, hatching, wash and dotting. Media included chalk, charcoal, pencil colour, water colors, and soil. Keywords included; Pestles and Mortars, Preservation and Drawing. Content in the study was based on usage and values of the Konzo traditional mortar and pestle in Nyakasanga Village, Kasese Region, Western Uganda; This study under findings discovered the purpose why the usage and values of Konzo traditional mortar and pestle should be preserved through Drawing as a mean ;the uses of Konzo traditional mortar and pestle included ;used to pound cereals and other food staffs in preparation of food, used to grind medicine which was given to the sick, helped to create relationships in the society which showed togetherness in the community, inspired the study. The findings which were presented on various surfaces through drawing recognized some of the values of the Konzo traditional mortar and pestle and recommended that further studies should be conducted on how they can be preserved through.
Role-Play Simulation as An Effective and Socially Dynamic Learning Strategy for VET
(African Journal of Education, Science and Technology, 2020-07) Nabaggala, Justine; Nansubuga, Lydia
This article presents a rationale for why role-play simulation is an effective and socially dynamic learning strategy for Vocational Education and Training (VET). The factors of generational change, world of work demands due to global economics, and rapid technological developments are frontiers for educationists to consider during the process of learning. Role-play simulation offers learners not only the opportunity to practice problem-solving in practitioner contexts but also to engage in transformative learning through focusing on their interpersonal communication skills. A study conducted at Elyna Designers limited, in Kampala, Uganda on Students enrolled for their industrial training revealed that they lacked skills to operate equipment, knowledge on a product design process and group dynamics considered vital in both learning environments and work places. The group comprised thirty (30) students; fifteen (15) interior design students on internship in Computer Aided Design (CAD), seven (7) on Internship in surface and product design, and eight (8) Interior Design students on internship in soft furnishing. The company supervisor introduced students to role-play simulation learning and group work tasks while monitoring them during the implementation process. Work activities included: designing the compound, space planning the studios and, designing fabrics for the soft furnishings and attires for the different categories of company clients. Through a collaborative learning approach during the internship, it was evidenced that products produced by the interns demonstrated levels of professional competencies attained through role-play simulation. Overall, hands-on training and role-play simulation should be emphasized while students are receiving institutionalized training in order to avoid the lack of workplace operational skills during internship.
Cultural identity and royal symbolism in Uganda: regalia in the investiture of the King of Buganda
(Taylor & Francis, 2024-02) Kekimuri, Joan; Wathum, Edwin
As an invented tradition of Uganda, the investiture of the King of Buganda stands out as one of the defining practices impacting cultural identity and the expression of power in the country. The regalia emerges as an iconography of regal glory which serves to legitimize power. This paper addresses the following questions: first, how would the investiture of the King of Buganda be seen in the context of visual narratives of cultural identity in Uganda? Second, how did the regalia serve to legitimize the power of the monarch to elevate his socio-political status in the country? Third, how does the King of Buganda become recognizable through art and adornment? Using a reflective, multistranded approach, this essay studies the material culture of Buganda accession ceremonies by integrating interviews with coronation officiants and painted depictions by the lead author. We argue that the royal regalia of monarchs offers visual symbolism that is enduring and significant, deeply owing to an ‘invented’ tradition and enshrined customs in a people’s culture – in this case, of Buganda’s kings.
A visual narrative of Batwa indigenous artifacts : an ethnography of material culture
(Machakos University Journal of Science and Technology, 2024-09) Kamugisha, Edward; Kekimuri, Joan; Kioli, Felix Ngunzo; Mutungi, Emmanuel
Material culture may cut across all items owned by people including a big assortment of tangible things like artifacts, cuisine, architecture, music, dance, folklore, religion and rituals. The Batwa lived in forests and largely depended on local technologies and traditional methods of living, and this formed their rich material culture. Citing a case of the Batwa (singular: Mutwa) on Mt Mgahinga in Kisoro, southwestern Uganda, this case study was conducted following four objectives: to identify different Batwa material culture items; analyse how they were produced; examine their functionality; and use them to inspire the execution of painterly visual narratives. The study pursued a qualitative approach, where a case study as the research design and employed ethnography as one of the research methods was used. We set out to study the Batwa living on the foothills of Mt Mgahinga and occupying two “cells” of Rukeri and Nyagakenke villages. Five men and 12 women were selected purposively and participant observation, unstructured interviews and photography were employed to capture the different activities that took place during the expedition. The findings revealed the processes behind the different items of material culture, for example, the making of fire, bows and arrows, spears, skins, bamboo containers, traditional traps and snares, and architectural designs. We also conducted discussions on the uses of each of the items. The study found that most of the Batwa material culture has been lost and most present-day Batwa have inadequate knowledge about their traditional material culture. The findings showed that this is so because the elderly Batwa that orally bear this knowledge have greatly reduced in number. Batwa have certain spiritual and religious ties with forests. It is therefore pertinent that the Government of Uganda looks into the possibility of resettling them outside the forest environment, and also benchmark to see how indigenous ethnic groups in other countries are handled.
When tradition inspires modernity: traditional pottery designs in contemporary spaces
(Jumuga Journal of Education, Oral Studies, and Human Sciences (JJEOSHS), 2024-11) Sanday, Rhodest Adong; Pendo Bigambo; Emmanuel Mutungi
The research article sets out to unveil the challenge of preserving traditional design concepts within contemporary spaces. Its objectives are to examine how Acholi material culture items inspire functional and aesthetic concepts in modern interiors, explore methods to incorporate traditional pottery in contemporary spaces, and create prototype pots that integrate Acholi design elements. It sets out on the premise that blending traditional artefacts with modern interiors fosters cultural identity and pride among space owners and enhances visitors' appreciation. Its methodological considerations are qualitative, using a parallel prototyping design, with two potters and five culturally knowledgeable elders selected for insights. The research is theoretically informed by the concepts of cultural identity and preservation within modern aesthetics. Its key findings reveal that traditional material culture enriches product design, creates a sense of ownership, and fosters community pride, while also generating income for artisans. Furthermore, the use of traditional designs supports cultural continuity by exposing younger generations to their heritage. It recommends incorporating indigenous knowledge and practices to create spaces that are distinctive and culturally communicative, enhancing modern living while celebrating traditional values
Ritual pottery and its repurposing in contemporary social design space in Acholi sub-region, northern Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2025-10) Adong, Sanday Rhodest
Pottery constitutes a fundamental element of material culture, deeply embedded in the socio-cultural fabric of communities across the world for millennia. Among the Acholi people of Northern Uganda, pottery has historically played a pivotal role in familial and communal rituals. However, the forces of modernisation and globalisation have engendered misconceptions surrounding both the rituals and the associated ceramic traditions, leading to the secret production and use of ritual pottery, which is the main focus for this study. This study was conducted in the sub-counties of Awach, Paibona, and Pukony in Gulu District with the overarching aim of adapting the Acholi ritual pottery for integration into contemporary social design space. Specifically, the study explored Acholi family rituals that used pots, analysed the significant use of pots in rituals, and engaged in a community-based practicum to explore the potential for repurposing ritual pots within contemporary physical and ideological contexts. Blumer's theory of symbolic interactionism served as the theoretical foundation for the study, which employed ethnographic research design and a qualitative methodological approach. The research population included potters, cultural leaders, elders, and pot users from both rural communities and modern social environments. Purposive and snowball sampling strategies facilitated the selection of twenty-five (25) participants. Data collection techniques included in-depth interviews, participant observation, focus group discussions (FGDs), and photographic documentation. Thematic analysis was employed to interpret the data systematically in alignment with the research objectives. Findings revealed that despite prevailing societal stigma, ritual pottery continues to be produced and utilised within the community. The study documented a range of ritualistic practices involving ceramic vessels, with a specific focus on three primary family rituals: birth, naming, and death. Five distinct ritual pots were examined, some of which were explicitly crafted for ceremonial use, while others were repurposed from conventional pottery. These included twin pots (Agulu Kirubi), bathing troughs (Agulu Otako/Otako Lwok), serving bowls (Atabo Lobo), umbilical cord pots (Atabo Pen/Lawum Pen), and burial plots (Agulu Lyel). Furthermore, through the community practicum, ritual pottery was reinterpreted and produced for adaptation within the contemporary spaces. The study recommends the implementation of vocational skills training to mitigate the skills gap among ageing potters and to ensure the sustainable transmission of pottery-making techniques. Additionally, the research advocates for the conservation and innovative repurposing of ritual pottery within contemporary design frameworks to foster cultural continuity and enhance the visibility of Acholi material heritage in contemporary social settings.
Drawings for cultural identity : documentation of the Kiga blacksmith products in Kabale district.
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2026-04) Ahibisibwe, Collins
The historical craft of blacksmithing stands as the basis of human achievement within Kabale District, Uganda, and has thrived as a vibrant practice. Axes, hoes, pangas, spears, and knives arose as products of resourceful blacksmithing, breathing new life into scrap metal. This study's focal point was the preservation and celebration of this unique heritage, capturing the essence of the Kiga blacksmith's creations through artistic renderings. This endeavour serves as a channel for safeguarding both posterity and cultural identity within Kabale District, Africa. Amidst the region's communities, particularly during the sorghum harvesting season, the utilitarian and enduring usefulness of blacksmith products has been evident. The study posited the objectives to establish the current practice of the blacksmith among the Kiga community in Kabale District; explore various narratives to develop sketches inspired by the Kiga blacksmith practice for cultural identity; and analyze the narratives and produce drawings that promote the cultural identity and posterity of the Kiga blacksmith. As a response, this research endeavored to strengthen and spread cultural heritage, supported by stakeholders and institutions dedicated to nurturing culture. This initiative aligns harmoniously with Agenda 2063, Aspiration 5 (2015), which envisions an Africa enriched by a unified cultural identity, shared values, and historical ethics. Additionally, the insights generated contribute to Uganda's 2019 National Culture Policy, promoting youth empowerment in cultural preservation and indigenous knowledge across communities. This report takes readers on an immersive journey into the land of the Kiga community's blacksmithing practices within Kabale District. This study was hinged on a design using the ethnographic lens and most of the data collected was purely descriptive and through sketches and drawings created by the researcher. The researcher used in-depth interviews, participant observation, photography and focus group discussion as data collection methods. Largely, findings indicated that the activity of blacksmithing brought about economic sustainability and thus needed to remain one of the viable and sustainable economic activities in Kabale District, contributing to the local economy and providing livelihoods. Therefore, the study recommended activation of current Policy Support for cultural institutions and funding by the government to protect and promote the cultural heritage of Kiga blacksmithing. This can include financial assistance for the preservation and restoration of traditional blacksmithing work environments, the incorporation of machine-powered tools, not just charcoal, to ease the production process, the establishment of cultural centres, and the inclusion of blacksmithing in educational curricula to ensure the posterity of the practice.

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