Adinkra Symbols as “Multivocal” Pedagogical/Socialization Tool

Abstract

Adinkra symbols are ideographical representations of proverbs, philosophies, thoughts, and values of the Akans of Ghana. The symbols encapsulate the worldviews and keen observations of human behaviour, and the interactions between nature and humanity. Adinkra symbolic expressions may be carried through gestures/performance, verbal and/or visual representations and are thus very versatile. While each symbol has a basic meaning, it assumes expansive interpretations in different contexts of applicability making Adinkra symbols “multi-vocal”. Drawing on the concepts of “multivocality”, iconography and iconology, I demonstrate how Adinkra symbolisms are used to characterize social realities and communicate social ideals. Using my curatorial experience with exhibitions on the Sankɔfa symbol (lit. “go-back-for-it”), I illustrate the interface, convergence and, sometimes, the simultaneity of the different forms in which Adinkra symbolisms could be expressed. Against the background of the versatility of Adinkra symbolic expressions and their potentially varied contexts of interpretations, I would conclude that Adinkra symbols have the capacity to be powerful tools for teaching and social engagements.