THE MAGIC OF COLOUR IN WEAVING

COLOUR IN GHANIAN ARTISTRY

1. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COLOUR AND CULTURE

In Ghana, every colour tells a story. It’s similar to how drums such as the Djembe create rhythms for celebrations, the colours used in weaving reflect the spirit of the people, their environment, and their beliefs. Whether it’s the bold red and gold patterns of a basket or the cool blues and greens of a fan, these colours connect weavers with generations of cultural knowledge.

Just like the drummers choose their instruments based on the message they want to send, the weavers select colours based on the symbolism they wish to convey. Take a look at the bright and warm tones woven into a Bolga basket, and you’ll notice that each colour has a purpose. For example, red might represent strength or love, while gold could signify wealth or royalty. It’s similar to the way certain beats or rhythms are used in drumming to communicate different emotions and energies.

2. COLOUR AND COMMUNITY

When we talk about colour in Ghanaian weaving, we must also talk about the community. Weaving isn’t just a solo art form—it’s a collective effort. The vibrant colours used in the weaving process bring people together. Just as a drum circle involves a community of drummers playing in harmony, colour brings together weavers, families, and entire communities. Whether it’s a basket or a platter, the final product is a reflection of the collective spirit and shared history.

Picture a colourful fan woven with carefully chosen patterns, perfect for a celebration or a wedding. That fan isn’t just a decorative item—it’s a symbol of festivity, of movement, of unity.

3. MORE THAN JUST DECOR

Now, let’s talk a bit more about the actual weaving process. It’s easy to think of colour as simply decoration, but it’s so much deeper. When you pick up a handwoven Bolga basket, you’re not just seeing colours stitched together—you’re looking at a legacy of storytelling. Weavers in Ghana take great care when selecting which colours to use, understanding that their choices can convey more than just aesthetics. The colours evoke meaning and bring symbolism into the everyday lives of the people who use these items.

For instance, green often signifies fertility, health, and growth in the natural world, and it’s frequently used in weaving. The process of weaving itself mirrors the rhythm of life—everything in Ghana has a purpose, and the colours chosen reflect that. It’s not unlike how drums in Ghanaian culture represent the heartbeat of the community. Each beat contributes to the greater rhythm, just as each colour contributes to the greater cultural narrative.

4. COLOURS IN FESTIVALS

Speaking of festivals, colour plays a huge part in annual celebrations. From the bright ceremonial garb worn by dancers to the colourful Bolga baskets used for festive displays, colour is everywhere. These festivals are often marked with the beating of drums, where each sound adds to the richness of the occasion. As you can imagine, the colours woven into baskets, platters, and fans are just as vital to the experience.

At these celebrations, Bolga fans are often used to add a festive flair. The fan’s weaving typically features lively, bold colours that reflect the joy of the occasion. It’s not just for cooling off, either—these fans are part of the performance, waving rhythmically with the drumming and dance.

The Magic of Colour in Weaving in Ghana is seen in how these objects contribute to the rhythm of the festival, just as the beat of a drum adds power to the atmosphere.