Adinkra Symbolism, Printmaking, and the Cultural Identity of Ghanaian Emerging Young Adults

Abstract

ABSTRACT Adinkra symbols are ubiquitous cultural artifacts in Ghana, West Africa. This qualitative multiple case study examined how proverbial meanings of Adinkra symbols impacted the cultural identity development of five Ghanaian emerging young adults. Using semi-structured interviews and an Adinkra printmaking activity, this study revealed six major themes describing how Adinkra symbols and their meanings inform participants’ cultural identity. These themes included: exposure to Adinkra symbolism; religion, spiritual, and moral guidance; cultural significance and grounding; meaning making through visual expression; Ghanaian identity expression; and respect for parents, elders, and community. This study has implications for understanding how explicit cultural messages contribute to positive cultural identity development of Ghanaian emerging young adults, and how printmaking can be used as a creative method to promote positive mental health.