Papers by PROFESSOR STEVE KQUOFI
Futurity Education, May 15, 2024
The objective-based curriculum previously in use was replaced by a standards-based curriculum for... more The objective-based curriculum previously in use was replaced by a standards-based curriculum for the 2019-2020 school year, bringing a fresh approach to the fundamental study of visual arts. However, the current curriculum places greater emphasis on art history and cultural practices,
Macramé as an alternative source of accessory production in the weaving industry
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Jul 31, 2019
The Historical Developments of Musical Styles and their Functions in the Liturgy of the Methodist Church Ghana
E-Journal of Music Research, Feb 23, 2024
Research Journal in Advanced Humanities, 2022
The study rooted in the eco-innovation theory aimed at investigating the effects of plastic waste... more The study rooted in the eco-innovation theory aimed at investigating the effects of plastic waste in the Kokrobite and Bortianor communities in Accra while finding proactive ways of using recycled art from plastic waste, with post-use packages in focus to sensitize community members on the negative effects of plastic waste. Phenomenology and art studio-based research designs under the qualitative approach were adopted for the study. The study was carried out from August 2021 to July 2022. Personal interviews and focus group discussions with 72 snowball and purposively sampled study participants. The data from the study were analysed using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The study revealed that the improper management of post-used plastic items in the study areas was a major factor that contributed to environmental pollution. An artistic installation was executed using plastic waste. Visually, it enhanced the environmental aesthetics in the community while philosophically serving as a sensitization tool on the effects of plastic waste. In the quest for a solution to plastic pollution, innovation from post-used plastic items is the ultimate answer. The Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment Science Technology and Innovation and the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture can organize such competitions to reward students of all levels who create innovative products from plastic waste.
Journal of Contemporary Issues in Education
This convergent parallel mixed methods study was aimed at addressing the lack of empirical studie... more This convergent parallel mixed methods study was aimed at addressing the lack of empirical studies in the implementation of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as an inclusive pedagogy in the Ghanaian higher education context. The overarching objective was to find out whether UDL has the potential in improving the learning processes and learning outcomes of the diverse students reading a History of Global Art course. Quantitative and qualitative data sets were garnered from 122 conveniently sampled students using an adapted version of the Inclusive Teaching Strategies Inventory-Students (ITSI-S) survey instrument. The findings of the study revealed that the UDL principles of multiple means of representation, multiple means of engagement and multiple means of action and expression impacted positively on students’ learning processes and outcomes. UDL assisted greatly in the development of collaborative, problem-solving, good time management and critical thinking skills, while increasi...
International journal of education, culture and society, 2022
The Ahenemma Mpaboa or royal sandals are the second most valuable artifact in the Asante royal re... more The Ahenemma Mpaboa or royal sandals are the second most valuable artifact in the Asante royal regalia that define the authority of a chief in the Asante Kingdom of Ghana. Unfortunately, little is known of the Ahenemma Mpaboa as an important cultural symbol that defines royalty in the Asante Kingdom. Therefore, this ethnographic study under the qualitative research approach was carried out to investigate the history, philosophy, purpose, types and socio-cultural relevance of the Ahenemma Mpaboa in the Asante community. Semi-structured interviews and observation were the main data collection instruments that were analysed using the qualitative thematic analysis. The data were garnered from Abrempong, Mfekutire, chiefs, elders, royal attendants, members of the royal households as well as vendors and craftsmen of the Ahenemma Mpaboa. The Ahenemma Mpaboa's origin is tied to a historical event that happened to Nana Nketia Tim Abamoo, Queen mother to the first Asantehene, Nana Osei Tutu I. The types, colours, shapes and designs of the Ahenemma Mpaboa are symbolic reflections of the accepted cultural values in the Asante Kingdom that play significant socio-cultural roles in the community. The study contends that there is a strong symbolic connection between the Ahenemma Mpaboa and the chiefs of the Asante. It is a powerful regalia of the Asantes that exemplifies their philosophy and worldview while projecting their religious, sociocultural and political structure. The study recommends the development of a robust digital archiving system on Asante stool regalia to serve as a hub for cultural education for both domestic and international tourists.
An analysis on the cultural contexts of <i>Bɔsoɛ</i> as an endangered Asante traditional dance
Research in Dance Education, Jun 12, 2023
Recycled art from plastic waste for environmental sustainability and aesthetics in Ghana
Research Journal in Advanced Humanities, Aug 10, 2022
Research Journal in Advanced Humanities
The study set out to investigate the environmental aesthetics present in habitual areas, specific... more The study set out to investigate the environmental aesthetics present in habitual areas, specifically in Ayigya Township, Ashanti Region, focusing on picture-making tendencies for optimal skill development. A total of 346 respondents from various structures were specifically chosen to participate in the study using the Narrative Case Study Design under the qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interviews, observation, and photographic documentation were used for the data collection. The data were analysed using photographic documentary and qualitative narrative analysis. The findings demonstrated how dispersed aesthetic elements are in everyday life and how this appreciation would have a positive impact on the Senior High School student’s capacity for creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills. It is suggested that students develop alternative means of expressing their creativity. The study contends that art teachers must help students to use aesthetics in their ...
Asian Research Journal of Arts & Social Sciences
The Methodist Church Ghana has been using different kinds of musical styles in its liturgy since ... more The Methodist Church Ghana has been using different kinds of musical styles in its liturgy since its inception and notable amongst them is Ebibindwom (Akan musical art form). The objective of this ethnographic study was to ascertain the aesthetic and cultural significance of Ebibindwom in the liturgy of the church. Direct observation and interviews of qualitative research method were employed to elicit primary data from respondents such as Reverend Ministers, Directors of Music, and Christ Little Band members who are conversant with this musical tradition. Again, extensive literature was drawn on the subject matter relying upon secondary data from numerous documented sources relevant to the study. Findings indicated that during worship service, the texts seen in Ebibindwom were repeated and thus afforded those who could not read the opportunity to participate and memorise some of the words from the scripture. Also, Ebibindwom, since its introduction into the liturgy, was intended to...
The impact of numinosity on the preservation of selected artefacts in the Manhyia Palace Museum, Ghana
Journal of the Institute of Conservation
The time-tested, resilient and proactive indigenous knowledge of the Asantes were and are still i... more The time-tested, resilient and proactive indigenous knowledge of the Asantes were and are still indispensable in the conservation of the biodiversity resources in the Ghanaian community. The researcher critically analysed the high impacts of Asante indigenous knowledge systems in the areas of taboos, cosmological beliefs and totems in conservation issues in the Abono and Essumeja townships. Using the qualitative research approach with descriptive study, document analysis and case study research methods, the study revealed the enormous impacts of the of indigenous knowledge systems in constantly monitoring the attitudes of residents toward the wanton destruction of the biodiversity resources in the environment. Key informants like Asante chiefs, elders, old indigenes, caretakers of some reserves in the area as well as some youths were purposively and stratified random sampled and interviewed to solicit for their views on the impacts of these Asante knowledge systems in conserving the...
This paper investigated into the philosophical and historical representations of the celebrated A... more This paper investigated into the philosophical and historical representations of the celebrated Adinkra cloth<br>production using the case study approach at Ntonso in the Ashanti region of Ghana. Data were solicited through<br>personal and telephone interview as well as participant observation from respondents who were purposively<br>sampled. The study revealed that the Badie dye was locally obtained and prepared using the barks from the<br>Badie tree. There are no additives mixed with the prepared dye as purported by several writers. It was also<br>realized that the entire Adinkra cloth process from the acquisition of the tools and materials, production<br>processes and the symbols usually printed in the cloth was firmly rooted in an interesting and thought provoking<br>philosophical and historical foundation which portrays the African as a wise, creative artist. The study more<br>importantly voiced out that though Asantes and African...
The content of the Art History component in the General Knowledge in Art subject studied by vario... more The content of the Art History component in the General Knowledge in Art subject studied by various Senior<br>High Schools in West Africa is largely of foreign art histories at the expense of the histories of African<br>indigenous arts which are shallowly presented in the teaching syllabus to be taught students. This makes the<br>students appreciate more of the artistic cultural heritage of foreign countries making them handicapped in the<br>historical knowledge concerning their own rich African indigenous arts that identifies them as a people. Adentwi<br>(2005) concurs that the content of an area of study must help learners to develop skills, values, norms, and<br>attitudes that are considered peculiar to the society of the learner. A critical analysis of the content of the General<br>Knowledge in Art subject proves contrary. There was therefore the urgency and utmost relevance to carry out a<br>research to ascertain reasons why the c...
This paper sets out to examine masks and masked dancers, to explore their meaning and significanc... more This paper sets out to examine masks and masked dancers, to explore their meaning and significance to the Olugbibiri people of Nigeria. The precise form, the performance and the symbolic relationships implied in its structure have received little attention. Hence, this study focuses on the study of the subject for the needed information. The objective is to provide more detailed account on the origin, types of masks and the performance of the masquerades. Qualitative research methodology was used to achieve the desired objectives. The study reveals that devotees of Ungozu are blessed with a wealth of children and finance, which fosters unity amongst families and individuals. Also, the commitment of devotees of Ungozu is fast fading due to Christianity and other alien religions. The study leads to a better understanding of the relationship between the spirit world and the physical world.
Traditional musical ensembles have serendipitous propensities among the people of Logba in the Vo... more Traditional musical ensembles have serendipitous propensities among the people of Logba in the Volta region of Ghana. Significantly, music plays significant roles in the phases of life of the people. Unfortunately, there has not been enough in-depth reflection on this cultural heritage and its impact on the socio-cultural and economic development of the people. This research adopts the qualitative research methodology to study and analyse the roles of 8 traditional ensembles play in creating and enhancing the social capital in the Logba area. The findings, however, reveal that traditional music serves as a medium through which life cycle events can be performed. The aim of this research was to create awareness among the people about how to appreciate their diverse, unique and creative traditional musical assets. This article is a useful document for musicians, historians and anthropologists as an exposure to the practical themes regarded as the core of the people's heritage.
The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies, 2020
Symbols, Colours, and Narratives: Basketry Ornamenting Motifs of the Gurene People of Ghana 1. In... more Symbols, Colours, and Narratives: Basketry Ornamenting Motifs of the Gurene People of Ghana 1. Introduction Symbols have been used by humans since the dawn of time. Many civilizations around the world have developed complex and intricate symbols that codify and embody their history, folkloric traditions, norms, philosophy, cosmology, aspirations, and fears. Symbols, therefore, may be loaded with rich cultural knowledge, and are visual expressions that define the lifestyles of a designated group of people. Motifs are sub-genres of the symbol system of a given culture. Artistic motifs, largely, are unique recurring images found in a pattern of design. Motifs may be employed on various surfaces as decorative devices. Also, they can be coded to transmit unique sets of cultural information, or used as part of ritualistic practices. For example, Novellino's (2006) study in Southeast Asia shows that basketry motifs could be used ritualistically to activate spiritual entities. Young artisans were therefore well-instructed and cautioned before knowledge about the crafting of these prohibited motifs was impacted to them. Motifs in these localities, according to Novellinno, largely comprised dragon and snake imageries, abstractions, rattan leaves, leeches, bamboo shoots, birds, stars and footprints. In Africa, many basketry manufacturers are reputed for crafting distinctive cultural motifs and patterns on their basketry articles, either to enhance the aesthetic value of the articles or to covey special messages (Silva, 2011; Ward, 2008; Corey, 1995; Terry and Cunningham,1993). Geary (1987) writes that the basket makers of the Aghem Fugom Grass Fields of Cameroon are known for crafting intricate motifs on their basketry artefacts. Equally, Asante's (2005) study in Harare, Ethiopia, reveals the lavish use of geometric motifs on most basketry items produced in this locality. Similarly, Biro (2011) writes that geometric motifs such as; triangles, checkerboards, horizontal bands, and other assorted indigenous symbols could be found on a wide collection of Tutsi basketry products. Zulu basketry producers are equally known for weaving varied contrasting motifs onto their basketry products, using assorted coloured grasses or leaves (Nettleton, 2010).Nettleton reports that the basketry products could be seen spotting spirals, interlocking rows of triangles, diamonds, and chevrons. The author elaborates further that aside the above-mentioned geometric motifs, Zulu basketry articles could also be seen with stylized motifs representing human figures, animal imageries (lions, insects, chameleons, horned-cattle and stylized birds), huts, boats, shields, spears, trees, flowers, and flags.
The International Journal of Humanities & Social Studies, 2020
Permukiman kumuh yang terbentuk dan berkembang akibat proses perubahan sosial di lingkungan permu... more Permukiman kumuh yang terbentuk dan berkembang akibat proses perubahan sosial di lingkungan permukiman. Permukiman kumuh adalah salah satu dari sekian banyak permasalahan penataan ruang tidak terkecuali di Kota Makassar. Salah satunya permukiman kumuh pada kawasan Biring Romang ternyata dapat dianalisis dengan menggunakan SWOT. SWOT dapat dibagi kedalam dua elemen, analisa internal yang berkonsentrasi pada potensi dan peluang apa saja yang bisa dimaksimalkan pada sebuah permukiman kumuh, dan analisa eksternal tentang meminimalkan kelemahan dan ancaman yang terdapat di sebuah permukiman kumuh. Adapun hasil penelitian sebagai acuan solusi penanganan permukiman kumuh di kelurahan Biring Romang. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian evaluatif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan survey, observasi, wawancara serta literatur.
Asian Research Journal of Arts & Social Sciences, 2020
In African traditional religion, priding oneself in the beliefs and practices of one’s culture is... more In African traditional religion, priding oneself in the beliefs and practices of one’s culture is intensely essential. The driving force for this is mainly the need to satisfy the will of a higher power. Cultural practices, being a channel between the living, the dead and the spirits is one of the ways in which a group of people satisfy the will of these higher beings. Body marking, among the Dangme, forms a great deal of aspects of cultural practices which connotes spirituality. This study discusses the concept of spirituality as enshrined in the body marks of the Dangme people of Ghana. To obtain the relevant information needed, the qualitative approach to research has been adopted using interviews and observation as the main data collection tools. These give a rich and in-depth understanding of the body marks that are practiced for spiritual purposes among the Dangme. This paper is a collation of findings from studies conducted between February, 2012 and February, 2019. It is evi...
Research on Humanities and Social Sciences, 2020
This study which identifies and reviews selected artefacts of the Akwamuhene royal regalia was co... more This study which identifies and reviews selected artefacts of the Akwamuhene royal regalia was conducted at the Bogyawe palace in Akwamufie. The research tools employed were questionnaire, observation and interviews to collect and investigate relevant cultural knowledge on the royal regalia of the Akwamuhene. Using the appropriate research instruments, for purposeful analysis and interpretation, the artefacts were documented hence, served as a means of preservation. There were 65 respondents who were interviewed using an interview guide and 30 of respondents were given questionnaire. The respondents for the study provided names, myths, history, philosophies and significance of the artefacts that make up the royal regalia. The study thus focused on selected royal regalia belonging to the Akwamuhene comprising a variety of royal artforms and monuments such as deities, drums, clothes, palanquins, stools, chairs, Akyeame (spokespersons) staff, swords and sword ornaments, traditional sandals, headgears, jewellery and platforms.
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Papers by PROFESSOR STEVE KQUOFI