Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu (Unity) Wallpaper Hanging
Collection:UAL Art Collection
Date: 2014
Artist: Chrissa Amuah (British)
Dimensions:
Framed size: 80 x 114 cm
Medium: Dyed flock on grasscloth paper
Object number: UAC 804
See Also
DescriptionChrissa Amuah studied MA Textile Design at Chelsea College of Arts. She says:
‘The Ghanaian symbols of Adinkra date back as far as the 19th century or earlier. They offer evocative truths and practical interpretations of humanity. The symbol seen in this piece is an abstraction of the symbol Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu. The symbol indicates a Siamese crocodile. Its proverb speaks of unity; the crocodiles share one stomach yet they fight over food. It serves as a reminder that infighting is futile to all who partake in it.
Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu is one of a selection of symbols, chosen from over 200, whose meanings and shapes inspired my final MA project, Modern Africa – Sankofa. Modern Africa – Sankofa, demonstrates how Adinkra can be adapted for contemporary living to fulfil the appetite of those who seek more meaningful design in their domestic spaces.
If our beings are nurtured in environments filled with wisdoms that promote positivity, upon exiting our homes and stepping out into the world every day, we all share the opportunity to walk each step with intended harmony. Something that, amidst the hustle and bustle of modern day living, is very easy to neglect.
The values of Adinkra transcend cultures. Modern Africa – Sankofa is a unique culmination of aesthetic and symbolic design.’
‘The Ghanaian symbols of Adinkra date back as far as the 19th century or earlier. They offer evocative truths and practical interpretations of humanity. The symbol seen in this piece is an abstraction of the symbol Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu. The symbol indicates a Siamese crocodile. Its proverb speaks of unity; the crocodiles share one stomach yet they fight over food. It serves as a reminder that infighting is futile to all who partake in it.
Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu is one of a selection of symbols, chosen from over 200, whose meanings and shapes inspired my final MA project, Modern Africa – Sankofa. Modern Africa – Sankofa, demonstrates how Adinkra can be adapted for contemporary living to fulfil the appetite of those who seek more meaningful design in their domestic spaces.
If our beings are nurtured in environments filled with wisdoms that promote positivity, upon exiting our homes and stepping out into the world every day, we all share the opportunity to walk each step with intended harmony. Something that, amidst the hustle and bustle of modern day living, is very easy to neglect.
The values of Adinkra transcend cultures. Modern Africa – Sankofa is a unique culmination of aesthetic and symbolic design.’