2 Definitions
2.1 Kente
Section 2 introduces you to cloth making in Ghana. In particular, you’ll learn the basics about kente and adinkra, the two main techniques used.
Activity 1
Once you’ve watched the video, explain, in your own words, what kente is.
Download this video clip.Video player: What is Kente?
Transcript: What is Kente?
Catherine King (VO)
In the Ashanti region of Ghana, Kente cloth is a great status symbol, marking your wealth and, in the past, your office. Something to be worn on important occasions and by important people.
As the art historian in Ghana, Professor Kojo Fosu wrote:
Nick Levinson (VO)
A typical Kente fabric is woven in narrow strips. Each strip contains a series of bands, designed in intricate, multicoloured, geometrical patterns, alternated by other bands of simple, linear designs in contrasting, co- ordinating colours for harmonious effect.
Catherine (VO)
Each pattern is named after an historical event or a person, or is connected with a proverb.
What is Kente?
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