43
2937 ktísis (Creation)

DESIGN HISTORY
Principle of creation
“God decides why He wants something,
He decides what He wants,
He decides what he wants it made out of (material),
He speaks to the material,
Whatever He said to the material comes out of the material,
Whatever comes out of the material has the same consistency or components or the essence of what it comes from
Whatever God says that came out of the material has to stay related, attached or fed on/to the material in order for it to live,
However God created something to function, if you don’t put it back just as how God purposed it, it doesn’t work, succeed, prosper, bear fruit, fulfil, does not arrive at its destination,
Therefore, righteousness in God is when the created thing is in the place and functioning in which God originally, purposed and intended it to be. (Everything in life was first created by God (Elohim)).”

A Beautiful Woman, A Female

DESIGN HISTORY
“The female is essentially a receiver. The woman is unique because a female is a spirit first, a woman is unique because a female is physical. God designed her to be a female (Fe-male – Fetus – male) to physically carry the human race. A woman is created and design to receive love, she is a receptor. A woman’s number one desire and need is affection because of her makeup, she doesn’t want affection, she needs affection. A woman is adaptable, a woman is an incubator (she multiply everything), a woman is designed to be the object of the male’s love; a female was made for love…”

Secondary Meanings:
“No one can pull the loin-cloth off a woman without her knowledge. Lit. to come behind one’s back and do a thing, i. s. to do without one’s knowledge.
When a woman goes to bathe and is a long time in returning, then (you can be sure) she is decking herself out.

22, 23, 24, 25, 26
A Woman’s Body…

DESIGN HISTORY
Series: A Woman’s Body
 “A woman’s body and her heart are entwined; you can’t savor her body and dump her heart. It’s the heart that propels the body.”
– Vincent Okay Nwachukwu , Weighty ‘n’ Worthy African Proverbs

Secondary Meanings:
“Sex as representation of wants of mankind. Three things that will test your character. Power, Money, Sex.
The only way to test character is by temptation – tempt or to temper is to test for weakness – your character is as strong as the temptation you fall for.”

“The greatest threat to civil society is mankind. Every day the flood of images on our television screens tells the sad story. Blood, death, diplomacy, conflict, hatred, fear, poverty, starvation, rape, genocide, refugees and human migration, natural disasters, daily bombings, economic uncertainty, immigration, corporate corruption, moral decay, sexual revolution, and clash of counter cultures—all of these testify to the undeniable fact that we are our own worst enemy.”

“Sex is a physical sign of a spiritual act—the giving of oneself completely to another and for another. Marital love is the binding of one spouse to another.”

28, 29, 30, 31
“A fool is a trapped wise man… I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII”

DESIGN HISTORY
“A fool is a trapped wise man. You don’t kill a man whose eyes are not open yet because yours is.” Inspired by Oscar Reutersvärd.

“A Heart Is a House for Love”

DESIGN HISTORY
A heart is a house for love. And I learned (I learned) that it don’t take much to build it up. (Build it up.) Build it up, build it up, build it up.
Ooh
… Song by the Dells

39
A Pursuit of an unknown 2mor= (Tomorrow)

DESIGN HISTORY
The source of life is the Creator and the undefinable relentless forage burden upon mankind. “Vision is the source and hope of life. The greatest gift ever given to mankind is not the gift of sight, but the gift of vision. Sight is a function of the eyes; vision is a function of the heart.”
The ultimate pursuit of man is an endless deep search for a utopian world that is the result of all man’s so-called sophisticated inventions (religions, government systems and structure, ideas, and pursuit of happiness). “Technology, Design, Art,… are some of the tools and systems we use in our pursuit of this unknown search.
I am convinced truly that every person on earth ultimately is searching for two things in life: purpose and power. “We are all looking for a meaning for our existence and the power to control our lives and our circumstances; power to determine the future and predict the unknown; power over death and life. We seek this purpose and power in many ways: search for, desire, to find by inquiry, thought, examination, religion, politics, money, fame, notoriety, recognition, influence, production of goods, or services.”

Aban – Fence

DESIGN HISTORY
Aban is the Akan word for “fortress” or “castle.” It is a symbol of strength, seat of power, authority, and magnificence.

“Adinkra Symbols”

DESIGN HISTORY
“Adinkra symbolism is a visual representation of social thought relating to the history, philosophy and religious beliefs of the Akan people of Ghana and Cote’ d’lvoire. They mostly have rich proverbial meaning since proverbs play an important role in the Asante culture. The use of Proverbs is considered as a mark of wisdom. Other Adinkra symbols depict historical events, human behaviour and attitudes, animal behaviour, plant life forms and shapes of objects. In fact, the Adinkra symbols continue to change as new influences impact on Ghanaian culture as some of the symbols now record specific technological developments.”

Adwo – Calmness

DESIGN HISTORY
A symbol of peace, tranquillity and quiet.
Having a sense of calm and tranquillity within you helps decrease the impact of the turmoil on the outside, even in the midst of obstacles and hardships. Peace of mind is essential, and you can obtain it by remaining calm and cool during difficult situations. Adwo is a word that means “quiet.” It is a sign of tranquillity, peace, and quiet.

“An Idea”

DESIGN HISTORY
“Irrefutably, there is nothing more powerful on the earth than an idea, why because ideas are the source of everything, ideas also control the world, ideas are the source of motivation and purpose. Without ideas, we don’t have a purpose in existence, there is no quiddity. Purpose determines the design and design determines needs. Without purpose, we don’t have definitions, without definition we don’t have meaning, without meaning we don’t have understanding, without understanding we don’t have communication, without communication we don’t relationships, without relationships we don’t have oneness, without oneness there is no fulfilment and without fulfilment, there is no sense of happiness and significance (personal or corporate), destination, fulfilment of needs.”

AKOMA – “the heart”

DESIGN HISTORY
Name/Theme: Akoma/Patience
Literal Translation: ‘Have a heart or take a heart’ (Glover, 1969)
Meaning: ‘Nya’ means to have or to acquire. ‘Akoma’ refers to the heart. Akoma – take heart, that is be patient. A person is said to be patient if that person is able to stay calm and not to react to any negative situations or the ability to endure waiting, delay, or provocation without becoming annoyed or upset, or to persevere calmly when faced with difficulties.

14
Akoko Nan – A hen’s leg

DESIGN HISTORY
Akoko Nan a symbols that depicts discipline and caring. Like the name suggests, a hen tramp on its chick but can not kill them. In addition, the emblem portrays the protective and caring nature of parents.

Akoma Ntoaso (Symbol of Understanding, Agreement)

DESIGN HISTORY
Akoma Ntoaso – Symbol of Understanding, Agreement
Name/Theme: Akoma Ntoaso/ Understanding, Agreement.
Literal Translation: linked heart (Glover, 1969)
Meaning: Akoma – heart, ntoaso- linkage, linked hearts. This signifies a formal or informal decisions-agreement that people have reached together about something of importance.

Agyindawuru – Loyalty

DESIGN HISTORY
Agyindawuru is a symbol of loyalty, vigilance, and responsibility. Agyin’s gong is a symbol of loyalty, vigilance, and responsibility. They were designed to honour the faithfulness of one Agyin, the Asantehene’s diligent servant and gong-beater.

All things have their origin

DESIGN HISTORY
All things have their origin – Everything has its kind here on Earth.

Ananse Ntontan – Creativity

DESIGN HISTORY
Ananse Ntontan is a symbol of creativity, complexities of life and wisdom. Creativity is the creation of something new and different. Understanding relates to knowledge, experience and well as reasonable judgement in decision making and taking necessary actions.

Ananse, the famous spider in Akan folktales is known for his cunning. However, in general, the spider is also respected for his creativity in weaving a web that is able to trap prey. The spider’s web is known for its strength. Indeed, a string of the web is known to be stronger and more versatile than steel of the same thickness.

When Ananse features in folk tales, he usually comes along with Ntikuma, his son, Okonore Yaa, and some other family members. Known for the cheat he is, his associates are always wary of his antics lest they fall prey to his wit.

Ani Bere – Seriousness

DESIGN HISTORY
Ani Bere – Seriousness – This is a symbol of diligence, perseverance.
Ani bere a, nso gya, anka mani abere koo; Seriousness does not show fiery eyes, else you would see my face all red.

Animal Kingdom

DESIGN HISTORY
Article 204. The Laws of the Animal Kingdom Chapter I, II, III
Original Story “Ampan Dankwa” by Nana Ampadu.

33
Ashanti motif (series III of many)

DESIGN HISTORY
The beauty, rich silk cloth, art, architecture, the language of the Ashantee people.
…, a physician in the Danish service, who meditated a visit to Ashantee, writes, “ this mighty king has a piece of gold, like a charm, more than four men can carry… King, who was surrounded by a number of attendants, whose appearance bore evident signs of riches and authority: chains, stools, axes, swords, flutes, message-canes, &c. were either of solid gold or richly adorned with that metal: those dazzling appearances,…
Extracted from MISSION FROM CAPE COAST CASTLE TO ASHANTEE… BY T. EDWARD BOWDICH, ESQ.

Animal Kingdom  – adornment

DESIGN HISTORY
Article 204. The Laws of the Animal Kingdom Chapter I, II,
Original Story “Ampan Dankwa” by Nana Ampadu.
Monkey inspired by Gravures

5
Asase Ye Duru – Earth has mass

DESIGN HISTORY
Asase Ye Duru represents the divinity and the providence of Mother earth. The symbol promotes the importance of the Earth in sustaining the existence of life to every living thing. Therefore, people should not act in a way that they are going to harm the Earth.

Ashanti motif (series VIIII of many)

DESIGN HISTORY
Okwasea redi ne sika a, ose ne nsenĩa ye merew
When a fool is squandering his gold dust, he says his scales are out of order.

Sika, original meaning, gold, gold dust, now stands for money (gold, silver, or copper).

Nsenĩa. Scales. Light balances are used by the Ashantis for weighing gold dust. The weights, commonly known as ‘Ashanti weights’ are cast from metal by the cire perdue process and often show a high degree of aesthetic art. Each weight is designed to represent some object man, woman, animal, hunting-belt, pumpkin, &c., &c. The process of casting is as follows: A rough model of the object desired is worked in clay; when dry this is coated all over with beeswax, and all the finishing touches added. The whole model is then covered over with clay; a duct, or passage being left, leading to the wax. The clay is now heated, when the wax runs out leaving a space between the first and second layers, which would seem to point to these having originally been used as weights, and it would be most interesting to take, say two seeds from the tawa tree and compare the metal weight of that name, when the value of gold dust in ancient times might be roughly gauged. There ~ seem to be three bases of currency, the mpésewa, the taku, and the aɔkie, corresponding(approximately) to our 1d. 6d. 48. 6d. The designs used for weights would seem often to be symbolical.
Merew. – Soft, yielding, here of scales, easily weighed down, hence out of order.
Extracted from ASHANTI PROVERBS

6
Awurade Baatanfo – God The Mother

DESIGN HISTORY
This symbol depicts nurturing and provision. A symbol denotes the idea that God is like a mother to his people. The nurturing spirit and female attributes of the Devine Creator.

… How often I have desired and yearned to gather your children together [around Me], as a hen [gathers] her young under her wings, but you would not!
Luke 13:34

… As an eagle stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, He spread His wings to catch them and carried them on His pinions. The LORD alone led him, and no foreign god was with him. He made him ride on the heights of the land and fed him the produce of the field. He nourished him with honey from the rock and oil from the flinty crag, with curds from the herd and milk from the flock, with the fat of lambs, with rams from Bashan, and goats, with the choicest grains of wheat. From the juice of the finest grapes you drank the wine. But Jeshurun grew fat and kicked—becoming fat, bloated, and gorged. He abandoned the God who made him and scorned the Rock of his salvation. They provoked His jealousy with foreign gods; they enraged Him with abominations. hey sacrificed to demons, not to God, to gods they had not known, to newly arrived gods, which your fathers did not fear. You ignored the Rock who brought you forth; you forgot the God who gave you birth. When the LORD saw this, He rejected them, provoked to anger by His sons and daughters. He said: “I will hide My face from them; I will see what will be their end. For they are a perverse generation—children of unfaithfulness. They have provoked My jealousy by that which is not God; they have enraged Me with their worthless idols. So I will make them jealous by those who are not a people; I will make them angry by a nation without understanding. For a fire has been kindled by My anger, and it burns to the depths of Sheol; it consumes the earth and its produce, and scorches the foundations of the mountains. I will heap disasters upon them; I will spend My arrows against them. They will be wasted from hunger and ravaged by pestilence and bitter plague; I will send the fangs of wild beasts against them, with the venom of vipers that slither in the dust. Outside, the sword will take their children, and inside, terror will strike the young man and the young woman, the infant and the gray-haired man. I would have said that I would cut them to pieces and blot out their memory from mankind, if I had not dreaded the taunt of the enemy, lest their adversaries misunderstand and say: ‘Our own hand has prevailed; it was not the LORD who did all this.’ ” …
Deuteronomy 32

Aya – Defiance and endurance

DESIGN HISTORY
This symbol depicts endurance, tolerance, and willpower. The fern is known to be a robust plant that grows in harsh climatic conditions. Those who wear this symbol suggests that they have endured many difficulties in life.

34
“Beautiful Afrika”

DESIGN HISTORY
“A gun does not burst in Europe and wound a man in Africa.
If there had been no poverty in Europe, then the white man would not have come and spread his clothes in Africa.

There’s an African in all of us, isn’t there.”

Ashanti Proverbs.

Bese Saka – Sack of cola nuts – affluence, abundance, unity

DESIGN HISTORY
Bese Saka – Sack of cola nuts – affluence, abundance, unity
Literal Translation: “Bese” means “Cola nut” “saka” means bunch.
Meaning: it is the food for the weary, the food for greatness, a stimulant for power, and achievements (Glover, 1969).
Moral Value: They have learnt that the road to achievement is sometimes bitter but it turns to strengthen one’s life for great success. Little achievements give strength for one to carry on even when tiredness sets in. It is a symbol of power and wealth.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

Bi Nkra Bi – No one should bite the other

DESIGN HISTORY
It is a symbol of justice, fairplay, freedom, peace, forgiveness, unity, harmony, and the avoidance of conflict or strife. This symbol cautions against provocation and strife. The image is based on two fish biting each other tails.

Bird with a long tail

DESIGN HISTORY
My de(tail)’s prettier than yours. True BEAUTY is not seen with common eyes for its INNER (attitude, character, inner spirit being) issue.

Birth

DESIGN HISTORY
“The majority of human beings on earth have a broken spirit, an illness that physical diagnosis can not detect. It’s subtle programming from birth and it’s very deadly that many never get cured from. The truth of the matter is that we each were endowed at birth with a unique gift, something we were born to do or become that no one else can achieve the way we can.”

Bloody Gold Coast I

DESIGN HISTORY
“For the life of the flesh is in the blood:…”

BOA ME NA MEMMOA WO – “help me and let me help you”

DESIGN HISTORY
BOA ME NA MEMMOA WO means “help me and let me help you” Symbol of cooperation, interdependence.

16
BOAFO YE NA – WILLING HELPER

DESIGN HISTORY
Boafo Ye Na means willing helper. The symbol exemplifies concerned individuals who are passionate about helping out one another.
People who are ready and willing to help out other members of the community are rare and the Akan people are thus encouraged to lend a helping hand to each other however they can.

“EYES THAT LOOK ARE COMMON BUT EYES THAT SEE ARE RARE” III

DESIGN HISTORY
True BEAUTY is not seen with common eyes for its INNER (attitude, character, inner spirit being) issue. The Life Liveth in Me is like a real beauty it’s difficult to describe or define it but you know when you see it.

Calisthenics

DESIGN HISTORY
calisthenics – kalós (καλός), which means “beautiful” (to emphasize the aesthetic pleasure that derives from the perfection of the human body), and sthenos (σθένος), meaning “strength” (great mental strength, courage, strength, and determination).

Camelopard – Eden Series

DESIGN HISTORY
“Camelopard” – it’s actually about the Giraffa (giraffe). Do you see it?
“EDEN – Spot, Moment, Open Door, Presence.
The spot for the moment where the presence of God is an open door to Heaven. It is a spot on the planet where God brought the heavenly presence to touch the earth.”

Dame-Dame – Name of a board game meaning chequered

DESIGN HISTORY
It is symbol of intelligence, ingenuity and strategy. Dame dame is a two player checkered board game popular in Ghana. It is known as Draughts in the UK and called Checkers in America. Dame dame is played in a 9×9 board and the two players begin with 14 pawns of neatly arranged on one end of the board. This game requires a lot of concentration and intelligence and the symbol is used to exemplify the ingenuity a player needs to play a typical game of dame dame.

Denkyem – Crocodile

DESIGN HISTORY
It is a symbol of adaptability, cleverness, from the proverb, “Ɔdɛnkyɛm da nsuo mu nanso ɔhome mframa,” to wit, “The crocodile lives in water yet it breathes air.” Demonstrating an ability to adapt to circumstances.

One may attribute the adaptability of the reptile to himself to show his own adaptability and ingenuity coupled with formidability and mystery. The idea that it takes ingenuity to live in water but breathe air comes from the inability of humans to do that. Hence, the anthropomorphized crocodile becomes a symbol that embodies superhuman traits the user desires to communicate about himself.

8
DONO – Praise and Goodwill

DESIGN HISTORY
Dono is a type of tension talking drum. It is a symbol of appelation, praise, goodwill and rhythm.

Dono is a type of tension talking drum with strings connecting both ends which are covered with animal skins. It is usually held under the armpit and produces a different sound based on how tightly it is gripped under the arm. It is a symbol of appelation, praise, goodwill and rhythm.

DONNO NTOASO – Talking Drum

DESIGN HISTORY
“The talking drum is a communication device common to many tribes across West Africa. The talking drum is beaten to relay a local language and convey a message to people within the community.
For the Akan people in the Asante land of Ghana, the symbol of the talking drum poetic excellence and goodwill. It can also be used to send praises and goodwill to the people of the community.”

Duafe – Wooden Comb

DESIGN HISTORY
It i a symbol of feminine consideration or good feminine qualities such as patience, prudence, fondness, love, and care.

Duafe is a combination of dua (English: wood, wooden) and afe (English: comb). The duafe was an important item in the collection of items women used for grooming.

DWENNIMMEN – Ram Horn

DESIGN HISTORY
Proverb: ‘Dwenini ahoɔden ne n’aben; wopan n’aben a na woayi no, awie no.’
The strength of the ram lies in its horns, once they are plucked off, then it is caught in a trap. Dwenini refers to a ‘ram’ and it signifies humility. Aben also refers to Horns it also signifies strength. Therefore ram’s horn means humility and strength (Rattray: 267). The symbol stresses humility in every aspect of life, to learn and acquire knowledge. It discourages people from being arrogant but rather humble in order to accomplish all their endeavors. This is a symbol of humility and strength.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

DWENNIMMEN – Ram Horn

DESIGN HISTORY
It represents strength (in mind, body, and soul), humility, wisdom, and learning.

What is it about the horns of a ram? They are strong; they are fierce; they can be intimidating; they are a defense. Dweninmmen is a symbol of strength with humility. Sheep are humble and can be easily guided. They can be led to and away from food at the shepherd’s will, much unlike goats.

Humility is a cherished virtue among the Akans. Modesty in dress and lifestyle is upheld and there are perpetual reminders of the finitude of life. For instance, the adinkra symbol Owuo Atwedee is one of such reminders. The saying goes that everybody will climb the ladder of death. It is a warning that strong and powerful though one may be, death is inevitable. We have overcome death and all our attempts at inventing potions that will conquer it have failed. There is at least one force—call it nature, call it God, cal it whatever—that operates in the affairs of men and that prevails in the end. To be humble is to order one’s life and arrange one’s affairs with this in mind.

Modesty amid wealth and good fortune does not come easily to everyone. Perhaps this is due to the notion that everything that happens in one’s life is by his own doing. There are those who believe that the wealth of the wealthy and the poverty of the poor are all attributable to their respective personal efforts. Given this scheme of thought, one is justified to commend himself for his success and to look down on other’s who have not been as successful. If success is the proof of one’s general merit and failure is the disproof of the same, then inordinate superciliousness is a warranted and justified response from the rich and powerful to their fortune. Is this right?

It exhibits vertical symmetry because it is actually a picture of two opposing horns. That is the orientation of horns of rams when they fight. The scene can be quite mesmerizing as they move away from each other and then run towards each other at top speed to smash their horns against each other. One can imagine it must be a rather frightful experience for at least one of them if not for both. In an attempt to establish dominance and authority, these otherwise humble creatures deem it necessary to hurt themselves if they have to, all so they can prove a point. But to whom? Humans have not proven superior to this base instinct animals so frequently display publicly. We want to be respected. We want to be acknowledged. We want to be loved. When that does not happen we want to show that those who made it not happen were wrong. Sometimes there is huge cost involved in this demonstration yet we deem it necessary. Perhaps another perspective is needed. Perhaps the ability to hold oneself in check—the ability to restrain oneself when provoked should be cherished as an even higher ideal.

EDEN Series

DESIGN HISTORY
“EDEN – Spot, Moment, Open Door, Presence.
The spot for the moment where the presence of God is an open door to Heaven. It is a spot on the planet where God brought the heavenly presence to touch the earth.”

Epa  – Symbol of Slavery

DESIGN HISTORY
Epa  – Symbol of Slavery
Name/Theme: Epa/slavery
Meaning: Epa literally refers to Handcuffs
Proverb: ‘Onii a, ne pa da wonsa, akowa nne wo’. Ono na wodan no.
Literal Translation: You are a slave to him whose handcuffs you wear. He is the one you serve
Meaning: The proverb signifies a mark of total servitude for subjects, that is, a sign of complete ownership for the captor or an authority. This symbol is also used for the production of adinkra cloth and other traditional prints.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

Erogenous Zones Series

DESIGN HISTORY
Erogenous zones: (feel-good areas)

Erogenous Zones: Forever Kissing

DESIGN HISTORY
Fervour & Forever Kissing. Love – a decision to meet the basic needs of another human at every opportunity (and except nothing back)

Erogenous Zones: Adam (אָדָם) Effect Series IV

DESIGN HISTORY
“A truly single person is one who is complete physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually without dependence upon anyone else.”

Erogenous Zones: Adam (אָדָם) Effect Series V

DESIGN HISTORY
“A truly single person is one who is complete physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually without dependence upon anyone else.”aesthete’s items (ai) edition

Erogenous Zones: Covering (Body Suit)

DESIGN HISTORY
A man (mankind) is a spirit, he leaves in a body and possesses a soul. Whoever is able to control the soul(is the integration of the Mind, Will, Emotions and it is a media that mediate between your spirit and body) rules the man.

Erogenous Zones: Covering (Body Suit) II

DESIGN HISTORY
A man (mankind) is a spirit, he leaves in a body and possesses a soul. Whoever is able to control the soul(is the integration of the Mind, Will, Emotions and it is a media that mediate between your spirit and body) rules the man.

Erogenous Zones: Locky (Leadership)

DESIGN HISTORY
“Leadership is the capacity to influence (is when people are so impacted by your conviction of character that they are willing to surrender their authority to your cause, that’s called following) others through inspiration (people are inspired by your passion and not your preaching and shouting, passion is the willingness to die for what you believe in) generated by a passion (when a person captures a vision that they believe more than the present then passion takes over their lives, passion is a desire that is stronger than death, when a person believes in a vision that they are willing to die for it a leader is born) motivated by a vision (purpose in the picture, where you see your end, your destiny in photographs, you begin to see how you are supposed to help the world, how to contribute to your generation, true vision is to improve your generation. When you see a vision it becomes a reality) birth by a conviction (a belief in your signature, I am important to the world, a conviction will always begin to show up in pictures) produced by a purpose (discovering the original intent for your life and this happens when you have an encounter with our maker”) – Dr. Myles Munroe

Erogenous Zones: Moral and spiritual rectitude

DESIGN HISTORY
The truth and meaning of Life is to be seated on justice and righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation.)

Erogenous Zones: Moral and spiritual rectitude II

DESIGN HISTORY
The truth and meaning of Life is to be seated on justice and righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation.)

Erogenous Zones: Relationship

DESIGN HISTORY
“Human beings are social creatures, and we relate to each other on three levels: spirit, mind, and body. To put it another way, we interact with each other in the spiritual, soulical, and physical dimensions. This progression is very important. Healthy relationships should always begin at the spiritual and intellectual levels, the levels of purpose, motivation, interests, dreams, and personality.”

Erogenous Zones: Sex (Hand and Book)

DESIGN HISTORY
“Sex is manifested in humans (we are born sexual creatures). Sex is giving by God to express love; differences in primary needs in males and females. The primary needs of males are respect, recreational companionship, and sex. The primary needs of females are love, conversation, and affection.”

Erogenous Zones: The Browns

DESIGN HISTORY
“Self-love is a result of self-discovery, self source, self-worth, self-esteem, self-concept, self-identity, self-value, self-awareness: you become a whole single person. I know who I am, I love myself. Now you can love everybody else with the same value. We need to be valued, respected, affirmed, touched, given attention to, need to be accepted, feel important, appreciated, feel recognised, feel connected, feel that they are included, and need to feel secure. Every human on earth needs these things.”

Erogenous Zones: The Woman, the Female

DESIGN HISTORY
The female is essentially a receiver. The woman is unique because a female is a spirit first, a woman is unique because a female is physical. God designed her to be a female (Fe-male – Fetus – male) to physically carry the human race. A woman is created and design to receive love, she is a receptor. A woman’s number one desire and need is affection because of her makeup, she doesn’t want affection, she needs affection. A woman is adaptable, a woman is an incubator (she multiply everything), a woman is designed to be the object of the male’s love; a female was made for love…”

Erogenous Zones: The Woman, the Female II

DESIGN HISTORY
The female is essentially a receiver. The woman is unique because a female is a spirit first, a woman is unique because a female is physical. God designed her to be a female (Fe-male – Fetus – male) to physically carry the human race. A woman is created and design to receive love, she is a receptor. A woman’s number one desire and need is affection because of her makeup, she doesn’t want affection, she needs affection. A woman is adaptable, a woman is an incubator (she multiply everything), a woman is designed to be the object of the male’s love; a female was made for love…”

Erogenous Zones: Window and the Sky

DESIGN HISTORY
In beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep…

Ese Ne Tekrema – The teeth and the tongue, friendship, interdependence

DESIGN HISTORY
Ese Ne Tekrema – The teeth and the tongue, friendship, interdependence
“The teeth and the tongue” Symbol of friendship and interdependence. The teeth and the tongue play interdependent roles in the mouth. They may come into conflict, but they need to work together.

Exosphere

DESIGN HISTORY
The exosphere (Ancient Greek: ἔξω éxō “outside, external, beyond”, Ancient Greek: σφαῖρα sphaĩra “sphere”) sphaira “sphere”) is an outermost region of the earth’s atmosphere, estimated at 300-600 miles, or 500-1000 kilometers, where the density is so low that the mean free path of particles depends upon their direction with respect to the local. Vertical, being greatest for upward-traveling particles. Its lower boundary is often called the critical level of escape, where gas atoms are so widely spaced that they rarely collide with one another and have individual orbits or where atmospheric pressure is very low because the gas atoms are very widely spaced and the temperature is very low.

“Eyes That Look Are Common But Eyes That See Are Rare”

DESIGN HISTORY
True BEAUTY is not seen with common eyes for its INNER (attitude, character, inner spirit being) issue. The Life Liveth in Me is like a real beauty it’s difficult to describe or define it but you know when you see it.

Fafanto – Butterfly

DESIGN HISTORY
It is a symbol of tenderness, gentleness, honesty, and fragility.

Fofo – Bidens pilosa

DESIGN HISTORY

Fofo is the name of a flowering plant (bidens pilosa). It is a symbol of warning against jealousy and covetousness.

This plant has yellow flowers which turn into black spiky-like seeds when its petals drop.

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FAWOHODIE – Independence

DESIGN HISTORY
FAWOHODIE symbol of liberty, freedom, emancipation.

18
Fervour and Forever Kissing.

DESIGN HISTORY
“Communication is the life line to love as blood is to life. Love is pure and Love is making a commitment to meet the needs of another person. Love must give itself away in order to be fulfilled; therefore, love needs a receiver. For love to be complete, the receiver must return it to the giver. That’s the relationship God has designed each of us for, and to which He invites all of us.”

Fihankra – Compound or courtyard house or the circular house.

DESIGN HISTORY
Fie’ refers to the home or house, ‘hankra’ also refers to a compound or courtyard. Fihankra, therefore, means a compound house or courtyard house. This symbol reflects security, safety, solidarity, and communality enjoyed in the company of family members who live in a compound house. This symbol shows vivid imagery of what goes into the construction of a house apart from the emphasis of security, safety, solidarity, and communality enjoyed as a family house.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

“Find your gift, refine the gift and they will find you.

DESIGN HISTORY
“Find your gift, refine the gift and they will find you. Genesis 1:28
– Be fruitful (productive)
– Multiply – reproduce what you produce
– Replenish – fill, distribute
– Subdue – dominion the area of your gift.
– Have dominion over the earth.” …
Artwork inspired by Bellerophon

Flying Turtle

DESIGN HISTORY
When God wants to give a turtle a gift, He doesn’t put it in the sky. A man’s gift maketh room for him and bringeth him before great men.

Forest Deer and The Humming Bird

DESIGN HISTORY
The Forest Deer and the Humming Bird, Original Story “Nsem Keka” by Dr. Paa Bobo
The hummingbird
A decision that will sadly take a life was made when the tiger decided to lend money to the Hummingbird. Once ago in the animal kingdom, the Hummingbird was friends with the Tiger. A friendship that was undeniably strange but succeeded in various reasons. The Hummingbird asked the Tiger to lend him some money and he will gladly payback when he gets a little bit older. In respect of their friendship, the tiger gave him what he asked for. Day turns into weeks, weeks to months, and months to years but the Hummingbird hasn’t aged a day. The situation slightly threw off the tiger because he couldn’t understand what was happening.

One afternoon, he met antelope in whom the tiger entrusted his problems with. The Tiger simply explained how bothered he was by the situation and he could tell that he was mentally unstable. The Antelope graced the tiger with laughter and not in a good way. He told the tiger how stupid and ignorant he has been. To shed some light on the situation, the Antelope told the tiger to visit the home of the Hummingbird and demand to see the father and the mother of the Hummingbird to be a witness as he demands his money. The tiger did exactly that and astonishingly, the father and the mother of the Hummingbird hadn’t aged a day just like their son. His father was even a tat smaller than himself. The Tiger released the Hummingbird was not honest with him so he angrily demanded his money. With no hesitation, the Hummingbird entered his room and brought out what he owed the Tiger. And before the tiger left his compound, he applauded him for figuring out everything. The Tiger couldn’t take all the credit so he voiced out the name of an animal who helped him. Meanwhile, the Antelope and the hummingbird were on one of the closest friends in the Kingdom so the Hummingbird felt betrayed by his actions. As the tiger was leaving, he asked him to give a present to the Antelope for a job well. In the gift box was Kolanuts. Mind you the Antelope has no teeth but the Tiger did not know that. Antelope was one of the animals the Tiger feared in the Kingdom. When the Tiger brought his present for him, he confessed in front of the Tiger that the Hummingbird knows he has no teeth so why would he bring him Kolanuts. The Tiger’s fear for the Antelope was no more and all we know is he didn’t live to tell the story. The morals in this story are to mind your own business and don’t contribute or participate in the cattiness of others.

Giraffe (Jirafa) – EDEN Series

DESIGN HISTORY
Long beautiful neck, it will take all the gems to complement it. “Giraffe (Jirafa) Nature: The world would be better off if people and nations would act more like giraffes: Giraffes are peaceful creatures that don’t attack unless under threat, and they don’t discriminate against other giraffes with different skin patterns. (Giraffe skin patterns are like human fingerprints – no two giraffes are identical.)”

GREEN PASTURES (TENDER GRASS)
He continually causes me to lie down in green pastures ( tender grass)…

DESIGN HISTORY
Adonai is my shepherd; I lack nothing. He has me lie down in grassy pastures, he leads me by quiet water, he restores my inner person. He guides me in right paths for the sake of his own name. Even if I pass through death-dark ravines, I will fear no disaster; for you are with me; your rod and staff reassure me. You prepare a table for me, even as my enemies watch; you anoint my head with oil from an overflowing cup. Goodness and grace will pursue me every day of my life; and I will live in the house of Adonai for years and years to come.

Gye Nyame – Symbol of Supremacy

DESIGN HISTORY
Meaning; ‘except God [I fear none]’ (Rattray, 1959: 267)
Proverb: ‘Abodee yi firi tete, obi nnte ase a, onim n’ahyease, obi nntena ase nnkosi nawie ye gye nyame’.
Literal Translation: ‘This creation originated from the distant past; no living person knows its beginning. No one will live till its end except God’.
Meaning: Gye means except, Nyame means God. God is regarded as the creator and ruler of the world and humanity; therefore he must be revered and worshipped.
Moral Value: The symbol reflects the supremacy, power, and dominion of God over all situations and creations. He is therefore regarded as the immortal omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent. This is a symbol of the supremacy of God.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

36
I Dream That I Heard.

DESIGN HISTORY
“I went to sleep, but my heart stayed awake. (I dreamed that I heard) the voice of my beloved as she knocked.”

INTEGRITAS, CONSONANTIA, CLARITAS = BEAUTY
Integritas (wholeness), Consonantia (harmony and proportion), and Claritas (a radiance and clarity that makes the form of a thing apparent to the mind)

DESIGN HISTORY
“The Koine Greek word for beautiful was ὡραῖος, hōraios, an adjective etymologically coming from the word ὥρα, hōra, meaning “hour”. In Koine Greek, beauty was thus associated with “being of one’s hour”. Thus, a ripe fruit (of its time) was considered beautiful, whereas a young woman trying to appear older or an older woman trying to appear younger would not be considered beautiful. In Attic Greek, hōraios had many meanings, including “youthful” and “ripe old age”.
The Pythagorean school saw a strong connection between mathematics and beauty. In particular, they noted that objects proportioned according to the golden ratio seemed more attractive. Ancient Greek architecture is based on this view of symmetry and proportion.
Plato considered beauty to be the Idea (Form) above all other Ideas. Aristotle saw a relationship between the beautiful (to kalon) and virtue, arguing that ‘Virtue aims at the beautiful.'”

In Beginning

DESIGN HISTORY
Story # I (multiple decipher)
Everyone has a person who can handle him. Everyone has the person he is afraid of, every single person has the person who can handle him. This is a serious matter. It’s really true that everyone has a person who can handle him. Because of this, when I see or feel a person is telling himself that “I’m tough”, then he intrigues me: You are merely a descendant of Adam; you have the person who can handle you. Everyone has a person who can handle him. Dear citizen, I’ve pulled out a mushroom, let me show you the molehill [local idiom meaning, “I have discovered something, and let me let you in on it”] Let me give you an example, and then we will all agree that “Everyone has who can handle him or her”. Everyone has a person who can handle him. So is it for the Cock; even if he jumps so high to crow very loudly for people abroad to hear him, it’s the basket (turned and placed over him) that we use to shut him up.

Confusion
“Now the whole earth used the same language and the same words. It came about as they journeyed east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there. They said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks and burn them thoroughly.” And they used brick for stone, and they used tar for mortar. They said, “Come, let us build for ourselves a city and a tower whose top will reach into heaven, and let us make for ourselves a name, otherwise we will be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth.” The LORD came down to see the city and the tower which the sons of men had built. The LORD said, “Behold, they are one people, and they all have the same language. And this is what they began to do, and now nothing which they purpose to do will be impossible for them. “Come, let Us go down, and there confuse their language so that they will not understand one another’s speech.” So the LORD scattered them abroad from there over the face of the whole earth, and they stopped building the city. Therefore its name was called Babel because there the LORD confused the language of the whole earth, and from there the LORD scattered them abroad over the face of the whole earth. The source of life is the Creator and the undefinable relentless forage burden upon mankind.”

Hidden Treasure
“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

A Costly Pearl
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.”

20
Happy Grey Hair.

DESIGN HISTORY
“Better is the end of a thing than the beginning of it, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.”

Secondary Meaning:
Wisdom is not gold dust that it should be tied up and put away. No one ties up a wisdom-bag, and takes it and puts it away in a box and comes and stands in the courtyard and says, Explain the matter to me’.

All animals sweat, but the hair on them causes us not to notice it. The Saying is used in the sense that a rich or powerful man can bear losses or troubles better than a poor one, though both may equally have their worries.

Kete Pa – Good Bed

DESIGN HISTORY
KETE PA “Good Bed”
Symbol Of A Good Marriage From the expression that a woman who has a good marriage is said to sleep on a good bed.

Knotted Series

DESIGN HISTORY
A fool cannot undo the knot tied by a wise man. There is bound to be a knot in a very long string. My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom have hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

1
Kojo Baiden – Rays

DESIGN HISTORY
A symbol of the cosmos and an omnipresence, or intuition

Kontire ne Akwamu – a symbol of collaboration

DESIGN HISTORY
Kontire ne Akwamu (they are the two elders of state representing the two clans of state) They are two divisions in a state. Their function has culminated in the proverb “Tikro nko agyina” meaning “Two heads are better than one”. It emphasizes on the need for democracy in governance and consensus decision (Glover, 1969). This symbol was produced from both vertical and horizontal lines and space. Fences serve its purpose of protecting the family compound. The need to employ both the vertical and horizontal structures normally made of bamboo stripes for building such wall defense is to protect the inmates.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

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Hug Me (Love is fed by love, not time)

DESIGN HISTORY
A connection is forgetting yourself and being interested in the other person. True love is not complete until it gives itself.
The death sentence of love
The most dangerous REASONS for love.
Why do you love me? I love you BECAUSE, I love you IF, I love you WHEN,
I love you WHENEVER you, I love you EVERY-TIME you, I love you AS LONG AS you,
I love THE WAY you.

Kramo Bone – Symbol of Hypocrisy

DESIGN HISTORY
Kramo Bone – Symbol of Hypocrisy
Name/Theme: Kramo bone/hypocrisy
Proverb: Kramo bone amma yeanhu kramo papa.
Literal Translation: We cannot tell the good from the bad because of pretense and hypocrisy
Meaning: The proverb, therefore, means that people show appearances that do not show their real character.
Moral Value: The proverb brings to light the pretense, concealment, and deceptive nature of humans. It, therefore, warns one not to take the behaviour of people at face value, else one could be disappointed. It also reminds people to be discerning when dealing with others. This is a symbol of hypocrisy and deceit.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

Life and Forms

DESIGN HISTORY
חָיָה (chayah)
Keep live, make alive, certainly, give promise life, let, suffer to live, nourish up

Life is _____

DESIGN HISTORY
“The soul consists of the mind, will and emotions. It is the seat of the feelings, desires, affections, aversions. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Watch over your soul with all diligence, for it is the source of life. Don’t sell it for it is your greatest possession.
There are three types of limitations in life. First, there are limitations that are imposed by external forces. Second, there are limitations that are inherent in the purpose and design of a created entity. Yet, most important, there is limitation that is a result of ignorance and faulty belief. This is the worst type of limitation because it is self-maintained and preserved. It is determined by us and not by others. In essence, what we do not know about ourselves is limiting us.

Lead with your life. Your life is the weight of your words. Your character protect your words.”

Ludo I

DESIGN HISTORY
Ludo (“I play”) is a strategy board game for two to four[a] players, in which the players race their four tokens from start to finish according to the rolls of a single die. Like other cross and circle games, Ludo is derived from the Indian game Pachisi, but simpler. The game and its variations are popular in many countries and under various names. In Germany, this game is called “Mensch ärgere dich nicht” (Man, don’t get upset), and has equivalent names in many other languages, such as Albanian, Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Dutch, Macedonian, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Slovene, and Turkish. In Greece, the game is called “[Griniaris] (Grumbler) referring to typical player behaviour.In Italy, it is called “Non t’arrabbiare” (Don’t get upset). In North America, the game is sold under the brand name Parcheesi.
In Spain, it is called “Parchís” in Spanish and “Parxís” in Catalan.
In Colombia, it is called “Parqués”.
In Poland, it is commonly referred to as “Chinczyk”
In Estonia, it is called “Reis ümber maailma” (Trip around the world).
In China, Malaysia, and Singapore, it is called (Aeroplane Chess).
In Sweden, it is known as “Fia”, a name derived from the Latin word fiat which means “so be it!” Common variations on the name are “Fia-spel” (Fia the game) and “Fia med knuff” (Fia with push) In Denmark and Norway through, the game is known as Ludo.
In Vietnam, it is called “C cá nga”.
In France, it is called “Petits Chevaux” (Little Horse) or “Le Jeu de Dada” (The Game of Dada) (dada being a colloquial word for “horse”) and typically played with horse-headed pieces.
In Hungary, this game is called “Ki nevet a végén” (Who laughs at the end).

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Love is like cotton wool and must handle with care.

DESIGN HISTORY
“Self-love is a result of self-discovery (you have to discover yourself first else you will never love yourself). Self-love is a result of self-source. You have to discover where yourself was sourced, where did you come from, you cannot love yourself if you don’t know where you came from. Because source determines value. If you don’t your source you don’t know your value. Self-love is a result of self-worth, you can never give your self-worth if you don’t know where you came from and you cannot know where you came from if you don’t discover yourself and discover your source. Most are suffering from other people’s value of you. Self-love is a result of self-esteem, esteem means how much you estimate yourself, your cost, and your worth. Self-love is a result of self-concept, concept has to do with the picture, an idea. How do you picture yourself results in how you treat yourself that discovery has to do with where you came from. Self-love is the result of self-identity self-love is the result of self-value.”

Secondary Meaning:
“Love is not emotions. Emotions are chemicals (when you feel for someone, that’s emotional chemical reactions, the problem with chemicals is that they change every 5 secs in your body. Chemicals are ever stable, when your eyes see someone it interprets to your mind…” True Love is the response to UNDERSTANDING the Value of a thing. Value is measured by what you are willing to pay for something. So if one claims that they love you, they have the responsibility to understand your value, which is measured by what they are willing to give up for you. Love is a decision to commit to meet the needs of another for life without expectation Love is caring – anticipating a need and meeting.”

Love Birds

DESIGN HISTORY
Birds sing not because they have answers but because they have songs.
In the birds’ court, a cockroach never wins his case. A fish and bird may fall in love but the two cannot build a home together. The bird is up in the sky but its eyes are on the ground. No one knows if a bird in flight has an egg in its stomach. Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Owl and birds inspired by Auguste Vimar

MƐWARE WO – “I shall marry you”

DESIGN HISTORY
MƐWARE WO refers “I shall marry you”
Name/Theme: MƐWARE WO symbol of commitment, perseverance
From the expression “No one rushes into the job of mixing the concrete for building the house of marriage.”

9
Mako – Opportunity and development

DESIGN HISTORY
Mako translates as “peppers.” It is a symbol of inequity and uneven development. Mako is a shortened variant of the Akan adage “Mako nyinaa mpatu mmere,” which means “All peppers being on the same branch, do not ripen simultaneously.”

This proverb admonishes the greater ones to help the less fortunate with the implicit understanding that fortunes could reverse so that they would also need someone’s help. As the Akans say, “Mmerɛ dane,” literally, “Time changes” so any advantage one may have now may not persist forever.

“Mako nyinaa mpatu mmere” could also be an exhortation to those behind to strive for advancement and not resign to fate. That someone has attained greatness shows that it is attainable. Yes, some may shoot ahead first but eventually others can catch up—eventually all the peppers will ripen.

Many rings, many gifts

DESIGN HISTORY
God removes the ring from the fingers of the giant through his shoulders. God’s ability to make the impossible things perceived by men possible.

MATE MASIE – What I hear, I keep

DESIGN HISTORY
Symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and prudence.
The implied meaning of the phrase “mate masie” is “I understand”. Understanding means wisdom and knowledge, but it also represents the prudence of taking into consideration what another person has said.

Mechanical Scarf Tongues

DESIGN HISTORY
Mechanical Scarf Tongues

Mframadan – Well-ventilated house.

DESIGN HISTORY
A symbol of fortitude, preparedness, resilience and readiness to face the vicissitudes of life.

“The Akan house is not only well ventilated, it is resilient and can withstand the hazards of storms, rainfall and the tropical hot weather.”

Mmara krado – Justice and Authority

DESIGN HISTORY
Mmara refers to the law that is the rule or set of rules for good behavior, be it moral, religious, or emotional. Krado refers to the padlock, it symbolizes authority. This means the supreme authority vested in someone to fasten or hold in check other people’s behavior, for the good of society. This symbol signifies supreme authority, justice, and equality of everybody before the law. The symbol stresses the importance of enforcing and abiding by rules and regulations in order to bring sanity in all communities. This is a symbol of authority and justice.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

Mmara Krado – Symbol of Justice

DESIGN HISTORY
Name/Theme: Mmara krado/Justice and Authority Literal Translation: The padlock of the law (Glover, 1969)
Meaning: Mmara refers to the law that is the rule or set of rules for good behavior, be it moral, religious, or emotional. Krado refers to the padlock, it symbolizes authority. This means the supreme authority vested in someone to fasten or hold in check other people’s behavior, for the good of society. This symbol is also used for the production of adinkra cloth and other traditional prints.
Moral Value: This symbol signifies supreme authority, justice, and equality of everybody before the law. The symbol stresses the importance of enforcing and abiding by rules and regulations in order to bring sanity in all communities. This is a symbol of authority and justice.

Mmere Dane – Time Changes

DESIGN HISTORY
It is a symbol for the temporariness of good times. Life’s dynamics.

Good situations are not permanent so the fortunate should not boast; bad situations are not permanent so the less fortunate should not give up. No condition is permanent, hence, man should be humble, cooperative and hopeful in all his endeavours.

11
Mo No Yo – Congratulation

DESIGN HISTORY
A symbol of Recognition Praise

Mo no yo means congratulations. When someone excels at something deserving of praise, it is only fitting to congratulate the person and this symbol is widely used amongst the Akan people to show recognition for a job well done.

4
MPATAPO – a knot of reconciliation

DESIGN HISTORY
MPATAPO – a knot of pacification/reconciliation
This is a symbol of reconciliation, peacemaking, and pacification. Mpatapo represents the bond or knot that binds parties in a dispute to a peaceful, harmonious reconciliation. It is a symbol of peacemaking after strife.

35
My hand or your hand.

DESIGN HISTORY
Coping together. Here with me today are many COLours, wondering COLours (people). One of them I know very well and that is every one of them.

NANTE YIE – GOODBYE

DESIGN HISTORY
A symbol of farewell
“This symbol means goodbye. Saying farewell to loved ones, things or even a place can be especially difficult but sometimes it is inevitable and it is necessary to prepare your mind to be parted with the person, place, or thing.”

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NKONSONKONSON – “CHAIN LINK”

DESIGN HISTORY
Symbol of unity and human relations.
A reminder to contribute to the community, that in unity lies the strength.

NKRABEA – DESTINY 

DESIGN HISTORY
A symbol of destiny
“Nkrabea means destiny and as the Akan people are firm believers in destiny, this symbol is very popular in the Asante region. Everyone created has a unique destiny and provided you live your life right, you will surely succeed and achieve the things you were predestined to do in life.”

NNAMPO PA BAANU – TWO GOOD FRIENDS

DESIGN HISTORY
A symbol of friendship and interdependence.
A good friend is worth more than gold and there is no greater relationship than true friendship. The Akan people understand the essence and value of a good friend as this symbol epitomizes the interdependency between two people who are friends.

NSAA a type of Hand-Woven fabric

DESIGN HISTORY
Nsaa – Symbol of quality
Name/Theme: Nsaa – Quality, Durability
Proverb: ‘Nea onim nsaa, na oto nea ago.’ Literal Translation: He who knows nsaa is the one that even buys the weak and old one. (Glover, 1969)
Meaning: Nea onim means he who knows, nsaa refers to a cloth, na oto means who buys, nea ago means that which is weak. This proverb draws the significance of aiming at good quality and durability rather than quantity.
Moral Value: The proverb advises people to make quality and durability a hallmark, and avoid mediocrity in their productivity. It also encourages people to patronize high-quality goods. This is a symbol of a taste for good quality and durability.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

Craftsmanship is an indispensable quality in the weaving of cloth. Whether Kente or some other fabric, the traditional methods of weaving involve a laborious process of joining yarns together thread by thread to form thin strips which are then sewn together. Modern technology has afforded us the opportunity to be able to generate similitudes of authentic woven cloths at scale but their value cannot surpass that of the woven cloth. The infusion of human effort in the creation of the fabric amplifies its value. It shows an appreciation for craftsmanship, effort, authenticity, and thoughtfulness in the creation of the cloth. It confirms the tacit contract between the creator and the customer—an implied understanding that they share common tastes and values.

The uncritical and uninitiated or those uneducated in the principles of quality may not be able to distinguish the genuine from the fake but not so with the discerning. They can tell quality miles away.

Kente weaving at Bonwire and Ephraim Amu’s iconic kente song.
Kente weaving at Bonwire has gained worldwide acclaim for the skill of its craftsmen. Ephram Amu’s iconic song has reverberated over the decades with rhythms extolling their skill and virtue. The first verse is the following:

Verse 1
Akyinakyin akyinkyin ama mahu nneema
Akyinakyin akyinkyin ama mate nsem a
Asante Bonwire kente nwene minhunuu bi da o
Asante Bonwire kente nwene mentee bi da o
Kwame dee onim adee ye kente nwene abo ne gye
Ne nsa, ne nan, ne nsateaa se egyegye nie

Chorus
Kro kro kro kro hi hi hi hi
Kro hi kro hi kro kro kro hi hi kro kro kro hi hi kro hi kro kro hi kro na aye me de o aye me de o
Bonwire kente nwene no aye me de o abo me gye

Nsoromma – Ward and guardianship

DESIGN HISTORY
The Akan word for “star” is Nsoromma. It means “child of the heavens.” It is a symbol of faith and the belief in divine patronage and reliance on a higher power.

13
Nteasee – Understanding and Cooperation

DESIGN HISTORY
It is a symbol that depicts understanding and cooperation. The Akan term for “understanding” is Nteasee. It urges the people to be more considerate and compassionate towards one another. Peace and harmony will reign when people overlook their differences and work together.

Nyame Biribi Wo Soro – Symbol of Hope and Inspiration

DESIGN HISTORY
Meaning: God, there is something in the heavens. A symbol of hope and inspiration.
Moral Value: God lives in the heavens and, since he owns goodies, that is where they are to be found. This Adrinkra is a prayer to God to grant a wish. The Akans believe that God is in the heavens to hear prayers, bless his people, and watch over them. They also believe that he is there to ensure that his purposes are fulfilled on earth. The symbol is in the form of two ovals conjoined in order to form an infinity sign with a diamond located at the point of intersection.

The conception of God in the skies is not foreign to the inventors. They believe in a personal God who answers prayer. Further, the existence of stars in the sky is evident for all to see. It is therefore not far-fetched to conceive of the infinity symbol as representing the sky where God dwells and the diamond representing a star which denotes that wish the supplicant beseeches the benevolent sky-dweller to grant him. The longing for this precious gift inspires the hope and anticipation this symbol represents.

Misinterpretation of the symbol
This symbol has also been interpreted as “God is in the heavens” but that is not quite what the phrase “Nyame biribi wo soro means.” “God is in the heavens” would be translated “Nyame wo soro.” The “biribi” is the significant difference between the two. “Biribi” means “thing.” This symbol refers to a specific thing, perhaps something that has been requested in prayer, that the speaker looks forward to receiving. That is what the proverb that goes with this Adinkra says: “God, there is something in the heavens; please let me receive it” or “God, there is something in the heavens; please let it be delivered into my hands.”

Nyame Nnwu na Mawu – Symbol of Immortality

DESIGN HISTORY
Name/Theme: Nyame nnwu na mawu/immortality
Proverb: ‘Nyame nnwu na mawu’
Literal Translation: May Nyame/God die before I die or God never dies, therefore I cannot die (Rattray, 1959: 267)
Meaning: Nyame refers to God, nnwu means dies not, and na mawu means for me to die. This proverb signifies the immortality of man’s soul which is believed to be part of God’s. After death, the soul returns to God and stays perpetually because God never dies.
Moral Value: The proverb stresses the belief in life after death and the need to lead exemplary lives to attain an ancestral status after death. It encourages people to set targets for themselves and achieve them. This is a symbol of immortality or perpetual existence.

To say God won’t die for me to die is to assert that the only way I can die is for God to die; but since the immortality of God is a given, this means I also cannot die.

This statement is interesting for of its superficial incoherence. We all die and, worse, do not have seem to have control over the forces that mediate our demise so what is the sense in asserting your dominion over death?

The centrality of God in the lives of its inventors is a realization that jumps at anyone who studies Adinkra. Gye Nyame, Nyame Dua, Nyame Birirbi Wo Soro, Nyame Nwu Na Mawu, and so on. In a bygone era, the prevailing narrative concerned the dearth of spirituality and the knowledge of God among the inventors and their distant relatives. However, the preponderance of God-themed Adinkra proves there was serious thought about God–his power, his attributes, his domain of influence. It is possible that this was influenced by the Gospel as Adinkra were invented only a few centuries ago but, even then, the inventors should be credited for making the message their own.

Nyame Nwu Na Mawu is a bold declaration of faith by the declarant that his life is hidden in God and therefore the one who wants to take it must first take God’s life before he can get to him. Just as Paul describes in one of his epistles that the life of the Christian as hidden in Christ with God, … The quest for immortality has been abiding meditation for generations of thinkers but this confession overlays it with a dimension of faith. God cannot die therefore I cannot die. The reason he cannot die primarily does not rest in his ability to keep himself but in God’s power and insurmountable authority which he exerts over the creation.

Physical death, spiritual death, legacy death, idea death. There are many kinds of death one could experience just as there are many kinds of life one can experience. The symbol is an x cross of what appears to be two bones. In a chemistry lab that would be superimposed by a human skull to indicate that a substance is toxic. When one dies and his flesh is rotten, the bones remain. Maybe that is the reason for using them in this symbol. The bones remain for a long time—they can last for thousands of years—after the breath is gone and the flesh is rotten. The enduring quality of this part of the human body is an apt sign that he will thrive, in spite of his absence in a typical form.

Nyame Nwu Na Mawu for he will protect me from harm. He will defend me against my detractors. And he will vindicate me before the naysayers. Nyame Nwu Na Mawu for he will perpetuate my legacy. He will make it abide.

15
NYANSAPO – Wisdom knot

DESIGN HISTORY
This is a symbol of wisdom, ingenuity, intelligence, and patience.
An especially revered symbol of the Akan, this symbol conveys the idea that “a wise person has the capacity to choose the best means to attain a goal. Being wise implies broad knowledge, learning and experience, and the ability to apply such faculties to practical ends.”

37, 38, 40
Obiara Wonea Otumino (All existence has that which overpower them)

DESIGN HISTORY
Obiara Wonea Otumino Story I, II, III, IV, V
Original Story and music by Nana Ampadu,

Intro
Everyone has the person who can handle him (2x)
Everyone has the person he is afraid of. Every single person has the person who can handle him. This is a serious matter. It’s really true that everyone has the person who can handle him. Because of this, when I see or feel a person is telling himself that “I’m tough”, then he intrigues me: You are merely a descendant of Adam; you have the person who can handle you. Everyone has the person who can handle him.
Dear citizen, I’ve pulled out a mushroom, let me show you the molehill [local idiom meaning, “I have discovered something, and let me let you in on it”]. Let me give you an example and then we will all agree that “Everyone has who can handle him or her”.
Everyone has the person who can handle him (2x)
So is it for the Cock; even if he jumps so high to crow very loudly for people abroad to hear him, it’s the basket (turned and placed over him) that we use to shut him up.

Story # II – Track Duration, 2:53
From The Ant To The Sun

The ant really fears the chicken, and the chicken is also afraid of the eagle; the eagle is also killed by the hunter; the hunter is
very afraid of the snake; the snake is also afraid of the stick; and the stick is also burnt by fire; whereas fire is also quenched by
water; and water is also dried by the sun. That’s how it is; everyone has what handles him or her.

Story # III – Track Duration, 4:50
The Hunter, Lion And Mosquito

One day a lion met with a hunter. Hunter wanted to kill the lion and the lion wanted to kill the hunter too. This was a typical case of natural selection; survival of the fittest. The fight was intense; the hunter wasn’t lucky, and the lion killed the hunter. After that incident the lion gloated, saying “After killing the hunter I am so accomplished, this world is mine for the taking; in this bush everyone already fears me, so if I have killed the hunter then who will I have to fear? And who doesn’t fear me?” So the lion, joyfully on his way to inform his wife of his triumph, encountered something tragic and unexpected; a small mosquito was just on his way about his own business and accidentally entered the nose of the lion. Mosquito was in trouble and so was the lion. The lion did all he could, but Mosquito did not leave his nose; the lion’s nose and head were itching unbearably. At this point, he was frustrated and ran into a tree, knocking his head on the stump; dead. It was not until the lion lay lifeless on the floor, that the mosquito could escape from the lion’s head. When the mosquito discovered that it was because of him that the lion had died, he was jubilant; saying “So all this while, I am powerful enough to kill the lion? Then I will not fear anyone anymore, I am going to inform my wife about this; the world is ours for the taking.” On his way home, he also was not fortunate, he got himself entangled in a spider web; inevitably becoming supper for the spider. As the cobweb boastfully expresses its victory over the mosquito, it dances triumphantly moving from left to right with the help of the wind.
That is how it is in this life; Everyone has a person who can handle him or her.

Story # III – Extension (Permutate by Yaw Tony)
Broom, Fire, Rain and The Sun

The bloom laughed and voiced graciously, as it began to show its excessive pride and self-satisfaction in its constant superiority over the cobweb. As it reminded the cobweb that when an old broom knows the corners of the house and the cobwebs are needed to remove even from the palace, it is I the broom that is used. While the bloom continues to spread its fronds, reminding everyone around and saying the strength of the broom lies not in the power of a single frond but in the resilience of its united fronds. The log of wood, accompanied by the fire chuckled. What some skinny fronds! proclaimed the fie, even the wood already touched by fire is not hard to set alight. Establishing it stands and treats contemptuously. At that very moment the wind from east, west, south, and north blowing vehemently reminding everyone especially the fire on how it has destroyed and put the fire out of business on many occasions. While the wind blowing and expressing its eolian tones talking about how easy it makes the stubborn trees that refuse to dance to move their bodies and how it helps those without an axe to cut wood. The cloud gathered from above darken the atmosphere, the thunder laughed with loud trumpet blast saying even my rumbles warn the blind and lightning chimb in saying I flash to warn the deaf. The rain put on her crown as her presence felt saying remember I have already destroyed everything on earth once. Don’t make me guffaw in tears. Then the Lord spoke out of the storm. He said: “Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone— while the morning stars sang together and all the angels a shouted for joy? “Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and wrapped it in thick darkness, when I fixed limits for it and set its doors and bars in place, when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt’? “Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it? The earth takes shape like clay under a seal; its features stand out like those of a garment. The wicked are denied their light, and their upraised arm is broken. “Have you journeyed to the springs of the sea or walked in the recesses of the deep? Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness? Have you comprehended the vast expanses of the earth? Tell me, if you know all this. “What is the way to the abode of light? And where does darkness reside? Can you take them to their places? Do you know the paths to their dwellings? Surely you know, for you were already born! You have lived so many years! “Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail, which I reserve for times of trouble, for days of war and battle? What is the way to the place where the lightning is dispersed, or the place where the east winds are scattered over the earth? Who cuts a channel for the torrents of rain, and a path for the thunderstorm, to water a land where no one lives, an uninhabited desert, to satisfy a desolate wasteland and make it sprout with grass? Does the rain have a father? Who fathers the drops of dew? From whose womb comes the ice? Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens when the waters become hard as stone, when the surface of the deep is frozen? “Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades? Can you loosen Orion’s belt? Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons or lead out the Bear with its cubs? Do you know the laws of the heavens? Can you set up God’s e dominion over the earth? “Can you raise your voice to the clouds and cover yourself with a flood of water? Do you send the lightning bolts on their way? Do they report to you, ‘Here we are’? Who gives the ibis wisdom or gives the rooster understanding? Who has the wisdom to count the clouds? Who can tip over the water jars of the heavens when the dust becomes hard and the clods of earth stick together? “Do you hunt the prey for the lioness and satisfy the hunger of the lions when they crouch in their dens or lie in wait in a thicket? Who provides food for the raven when its young cry out to God and wander about for lack of food?

Story # IV – Track Duration, 6:49
The Rat, Civet And Tiger

Civet met Rat in the bush. The rat had done nothing wrong to Civet yet Civet planned to devour Rat. This upset Rat but Civet saw nothing wrong with it. Civet, feeling justified, went to Tiger to solicit his approval on the matter. Civet told Tiger, “I met Rat on the street and as I am feeling very hungry, I asked to eat Rat but Rat is resisting, do you think what Rat is doing is right?” Then Tiger told Rat “Rat, just don’t worry, go ahead and let Civet chew you and right after I will also chew Civet”. That is how God has ordered things: Everyone has a person who can handle him.

Story # V – Track Duration, 8:50
Cock’s Wedding

The Cock was ready to marry and had put together some money to get married. On his way, he met Monkey in the middle of the road. This startled Cock because many times the Monkey has used trickery and mischief to swindle Cock. Monkey started with flattery, “Cock, where are you heading to that you are looking so dashing?”. Cock responded, “I am now ready to marry, I am on my way to my wedding ceremony”. The monkey said, “let me go with you and keep you company”. Cock, knowing full well that he doesn’t get along much with Monkey wondered if keeping this kind of company would serve him well at his wedding. On the other hand, If Cock chose not to agree to Monkey’s request to tag along it’s likely Monkey would give him a really tough time. So Cock had to think fast. Cock asked, “Are you sure you want to go?”, The Monkey responded, “Sure, I am game!”. Cock retorted almost immediately “Then now we are 3 people on the road, heading to my wedding”. Curious, Monkey asked, “Then who else is with us?” Cock responded, “Oh, just at the junction ahead, the Dog is there waiting for me; we already planned to go.” Since Monkey doesn’t get along with the Dog much, the moment he heard the name of the Dog as the third person he resigned and said “Oh, If you had already planned to go with the Dog then well, maybe it’s best you two go along as earlier planned. I won’t be able to go with you this time, wishing you all the best”.
Everyone has someone who can handle him/her.

11:42 – END OF STORIES
Twi names of the animals
sib> – Lion
Ntontom – Mosquito
Ntatea – Ant
Akok> – Chicken
Akok>nini – Cock
Kankane – civet
Kokuo – Monkey
Osib> – Tiger

ODO NNYEW FIE KWAN – Love never loses its way home

DESIGN HISTORY
This is a symbol of the power of love.

Okodee Mmowere – Talons of the eagle

DESIGN HISTORY

It is a symbol of strength and bravery. Okodee Mmowere shows power, bravery, and strength. The sign means that the eagle is the most powerful bird in the sky, and it gets its strength from its talons. This symbol is usually used by the Oyoko clan as their clan emblem.

Ohene adwa – The king’s stool

DESIGN HISTORY
This is a symbol of State, Chieftaincy.

Okuafo Pa – Diligence and Hard Work

DESIGN HISTORY
The words Okafor (farmer) and pa (good) are combined to make the phrase “good farmer.” A good farmer is conscientious and dedicated. It is a symbol that depicts diligence, hard work, and entrepreneurship.

7, 10
Ouwe Atwedee – The Ladder of death

DESIGN HISTORY
Owuo Atwedee means “ladder of death.” This symbol gets its name from the proverb, “Owuo atwedee baakofoo mforo,” meaning, “Death’s ladder is not climbed by just one person.” It is a symbol of the mortality, certainty and universality of death.

Owuo Atwedee gets its name from the Akan proverb, “Owuo atwedeɛ baakofoɔ mforo” which literally means “Death’s ladder: not one person climbs it.” Alternatively,: death’s ladder is not climbed by just one person. The proverb expresses the belief that death is universal to all men: everybody will die. The implications of this belief could be varied though. For example, to warn a particularly proud or cruel person of his mortality this proverb may be used. It may also be used to console bereaved persons that death is not such an extraordinary event but one that lies ahead for all.

It reminds the people of the transitory nature of existence on this Earth. Therefore the logo emphasizes the importance of living a great life to remain a meaningful soul after this life.

… Just as man is appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment, …
Hebrews 9:27

Pempamsie – Sew it for preservation

DESIGN HISTORY
Pempamsie means sew and keep or preserve. This literally means to sew and keep something e.g. a cloth, for preservation and readiness for any emergency. This, therefore, means that planning and preparedness are essential in all aspects of life. ‘abosoɔ’ is a long narrow tube-like stripe of cloth normally sewn by mothers or elderly women for the purpose of keeping their valuable or precious jewels and tied around their waist and concealed with a waistcloth. The tube-like stripe is sewn exactly at the middle and the two ends left open to receive the precious objects after which the two ends are tied together at the waist. The appearance of this piece when used almost looks like the symbol ‘Pempamsie’.
Extract from Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

Scarfitectural

DESIGN HISTORY
Inspired by The Depot Gallery.
Unite, join together in harmony and peace.

17
Singleness

DESIGN HISTORY
“Singleness – (separate, unique, and whole) is a state to be pursued, not avoided.
Contentment with being alone involves learning how to be fulfilled in your singleness. A truly single person is one who is complete physically, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually without dependence upon anyone else. Successful singles find their personal identity and sense of wholeness within themselves and in their relationship with God. Because they are complete within themselves, only whole individuals are fully comfortable being alone. They can thrive and prosper whether or not they are involved in a relationship. For such people a relationship is an added blessing;…
Uniqueness makes you attractive, which means you have discovered originality in yourself that you know is irreplaceable.
The third characteristic of wholeness is growing one’s own roots. To grow your own roots means to have your focus on motivation and control within yourself rather than in other people. Many people allow others to control their lives. They dress to please other people, they buy what others are buying, and they think the way others think. Uncertain and uncomfortable with their own thoughts and ideas, they simply acquiesce to the thoughts and ideas of others. Whole people are self-motivated, internally-directed, comfortable with themselves, and rooted firmly enough to stand strong and confident in the values they live by, even if at times they seem to be standing alone.”

Secondary Meaning:
“Human beings are social creatures, and we relate to each other on three levels: spirit, mind, and body. To put it another way, we interact with each other in the spiritual, soulical, and physical dimensions. This progression is very important. Healthy relationships should always begin at the spiritual and intellectual levels, the levels of purpose, motivation, interests, dreams, and personality.”

Snow pastures (שֶׁלֶג)

DESIGN HISTORY
Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.

Steps

DESIGN HISTORY
Dear L.O.V.E. This one is for you. “If your only tool is a hammer, you will see every problem as a nail.”

Super Duper Colourful Flowery Butterfly

DESIGN HISTORY
A wise son makes his father glad; a foolish son is the grief of his mother.
The way of the sluggard is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway. A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. “… the butterfly has two identical halves, yet instead of a separating divisor between them, the two wings of the butterfly are those that together allow him to elevate himself above the confinements of his self-imposed prison and reveal himself in all his glory. (Your eyes will envision the king in his beauty, and they will see distant lands.)”

Tamfo – The enemy will suffer or The enemy will stew in his own juice

DESIGN HISTORY
It is a symbol for ill-will, jealousy, and envy.

“Ɔtanfo Bɛbrɛ” literally means “An (unnamed) enemy will suffer” while “Me tanfo bɛbrɛ” means “My enemy will suffer.”

“Tamfo” is a misspelling of “Tanfo,” the Akan word for “enemy.”

Tamfo Bɛbrɛ conjures up the image of a calabash or bowl that is difficult to submerge because the harder one pushes, the stronger the restistance one feels. Some Akans use such imagery to describe what futility and struggle their enemies must endure to keep them down.

…that cleverest of African birds.

DESIGN HISTORY
It’s that common old African helmeted guinea fowl – that cleverest of African birds! When you cook a guinea fowl, the partridge gets a headache.

Secondary Meaning:
“Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? At the highest point along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gate leading into the city, at the entrance, she cries aloud: “To you, O people, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it. Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. To the discerning all of them are right; they are upright to those who have found knowledge. Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. “I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power. By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just; by me princes govern, and nobles—all who rule on earth. I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me and making their treasuries full. “The Lord brought me forth as the first of his works, before his deeds of old; I was formed long ages ago, at the very beginning, when the world came to be. When there were no watery depths, I was given birth, when there were no springs overflowing with water; before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was given birth, before he made the world or its fields or any of the dust of the earth. I was there when he set the heavens in place, when he marked out the horizon on the face of the deep, when he established the clouds above and fixed securely the fountains of the deep, when he gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not overstep his command, and when he marked out the foundations of the earth. Then I was constantly at his side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind. “Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it. Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord. But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.” waiting at my doorway. For those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord. But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.”

The Love Connection (Adam -: Eve)

DESIGN HISTORY
Odo ye owu – Love is death.
Only death can separate those who love each other.
One thread for the needle, one love for the heart.
A happy man marries the girl he loves, but a happier man loves the girl he marries.

3
The power of an idea

DESIGN HISTORY
The key to understanding is correct concepts (idea) cepts means to think or idea. Concept is ones conclusion of ideas. If your concept Is wrong your conclusion will be wrong.
There is nothing more powerful than an idea (thought).
Ideas are the raw materials for the creation of concepts.
Concepts are the source for communication.
Concepts are foundation for communication and determine the success of the process.
If your concepts are wrong then your conclusion will be wrong – thus a misconception or error.
The original concept is always in the mind of the source or the sender.

42
The water is at my knee

DESIGN HISTORY
One breezy but a sunny and warm day, a giraffe was standing in the water while a monkey (kuf) was sitting in a nearby tree. The monkey, who was not a good swimmer, saw the giraffe and asked him, “How deep is that water?” The giraffe (jirafa) replied, “The water’s only up to my knees.” The monkey (kuf) heard this and went into the water. Shortly later, however, he was on the verge of drowning and shouting for help. The giraffe quickly rescued him and took him out of the pond. The monkey (kuf) angrily looked at giraffe (jirafa) and yelled, “Why did you trick me!” “I didn’t tell you that the water was shallow,” the giraffe (jirafa) replied. “I said that the water was up to my knees—that doesn’t mean the water isn’t deep. After all, I’m much taller than you, and just because the water isn’t deep for me, it doesn’t mean that it will be the same for you!”

The Wooer; What do you see?

DESIGN HISTORY
Inspired by George Herbert. For want of a nail, a shoe was lost; For want of a shoe, a horse was lost; For want of a horse, a rider was lost; For want of a rider, a message was lost; For want of a message, a battle was lost; For want of a battle, a kingdom was lost; All for want of a nail.”

27
Things I, II, III

DESIGN HISTORY
The power of things!
“All mankind’s motivation and drive is a preoccupation with the pursuit of things. Everything we do in life is for things – we go to job place and work diligently to maintain things, we want a job so we can buy some things, we marry up to have access to things, people compromise their lives for more money to buy more things. All our prayers are focused on things. Most of our faith is focused on things. Religion is built on the promise of things.

Things are the source of all mankind’s problems (the crime in our countries is motivated by things)…

Peter concluded the love of money is the root of all evil…

If you got your identity and values from the things you do, then when the things you do are destroyed then your identity is gone, value and self-worth are also gone and you end up being nobody. “

Thieves Attacking and Abandoning the Traveler
“Who is my neighbor?” — The Question is still valid in 2021-2022!
Series inspired by Novellanus, Simon, active 1560-1590

DESIGN HISTORY
Jesus answered, “A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. By chance a certain priest was going down that way. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. In the same way a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he travelled, came where he was. When he saw him, he was moved with compassion, came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. He set him on his own animal, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the host, and said to him, ‘Take care of him. Whatever you spend beyond that, I will repay you when I return.’ Now which of these three do you think seemed to be a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers?”
He said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” — Luke 10:30–37

The Traveler Ignored by a Priest and a Levite
“Who is my neighbor?” — The Question is still valid in 2021-2022!
Series inspired by Novellanus, Simon, active 1560-1590

DESIGN HISTORY
Jesus answered, “A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. By chance a certain priest was going down that way. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. In the same way a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he travelled, came where he was. When he saw him, he was moved with compassion, came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. He set him on his own animal, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the host, and said to him, ‘Take care of him. Whatever you spend beyond that, I will repay you when I return.’ Now which of these three do you think seemed to be a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers?”
He said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” — Luke 10:30–37

The Good Samaritan Treats the Traveler’s Wounds
“Who is my neighbor?” — The Question is still valid in 2021-2022!
Series inspired by Novellanus, Simon, active 1560-1590

DESIGN HISTORY
Jesus answered, “A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. By chance a certain priest was going down that way. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. In the same way a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he travelled, came where he was. When he saw him, he was moved with compassion, came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. He set him on his own animal, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the host, and said to him, ‘Take care of him. Whatever you spend beyond that, I will repay you when I return.’ Now which of these three do you think seemed to be a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers?”
He said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” — Luke 10:30–37

The Good Samaritan Takes the Traveler to an Inn
“Who is my neighbor?” — The Question is still valid in 2021-2022!
Series inspired by Novellanus, Simon, active 1560-1590

DESIGN HISTORY
Jesus answered, “A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. By chance a certain priest was going down that way. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. In the same way a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he travelled, came where he was. When he saw him, he was moved with compassion, came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. He set him on his own animal, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the host, and said to him, ‘Take care of him. Whatever you spend beyond that, I will repay you when I return.’ Now which of these three do you think seemed to be a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers?”
He said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” — Luke 10:30–37

Twisted Wood

DESIGN HISTORY
“Se wamma wo yonko anntwo nkron a, wonntwa du,” (twi)
Meaning – “If you don’t let your friend cut (or get) nine, you will not cut (or get) ten. You must help your friend achieve a lesser goal before you can achieve a greater goal.

Two Peacock – Love is a High Order

DESIGN HISTORY
Love is a high order. Love is the decision to commit to meet the needs of another for life without expectation. Love is caring. Caring is anticipating a need for a person and meeting it now before one demands it.

Wawa Aba -Seed of the wawa (tree)

DESIGN HISTORY
It is a symbol of hardiness, toughness, and perseverance.

Wawa Aba literally means “seed of the wawa,” that is, seed of the wawa plant (Triplochiton scleroxylon). This seed is reputed for its hardness. Thus, Wawa Aba is a symbol of hardness, strength, toughness, endurance, durability, and so on.

The wood of the wawa plant is popular in the region for its use in building and carpentry.

What will YOU do?

DESIGN HISTORY
Keys in fulfilling Life: Purpose (source of vision) – original intent, will, reason for life.
Potential – ability, power (after you discover your vision you must believe you have the ability to fulfill that vision. Principles – laws, and values you function by in pursuit of your vision.

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Wisdom?

DESIGN HISTORY
“No one ties up a wisdom-bag, and takes it and puts it away in a box and comes and stands in the courtyard and says, Explain the matter to me.

Knowledge is information, and wisdom is how to apply it. In other words, wisdom is the proper use of knowledge. Purposes are like deep waters and a man of wisdom will draw it out. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.
Wisdom is the principal (beginning, chief, first thing in order of rank, first fruit, head (rosh), first thing we need for thing to work) thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Wisdom in true essence is an application of truth about everything.”

WOFORO DUA PAA – When you climb a good tree

DESIGN HISTORY
This is a symbol of support, cooperation, and encouragement. “Woforo dua pa a, na yepia wo” meaning “when you climb a good tree, you are given a push”. More metaphorically, it means that ‘When you work for a good cause, you get support.

Wonderful COLours

DESIGN HISTORY
Herewith me today are many COLours, wonderful COLours. One of them I know very well and that is every one of them.

You’re a fine quality – “being of one’s hour”

DESIGN HISTORY
Your cheeks are like beds of spice yielding perfume. Your lips are like lilies dripping with myrrh.

Adinkra Extraction

Adinkra symbols are extracted from:
Cultural Symbolism in Asante Traditional Textiles by ABRAHAM EKOW ASMAH

Adinkra Symbols & Meanings – A comprehensive reference for Adinkra symbols, with meanings, pronunciations, and reflections on their significance.

West African Wisdom: Adinkra Symbols & Meanings – Adinkra Index