Research Article
Cultural Evolution in Clay: A Comparative Analysis of Indigenous Pottery Trajectories in Northern Ghana and South Korea
Kwabena Darko Akuamoah*
,
Peter Atakuma Agbodza
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
1-10
Received:
30 November 2025
Accepted:
20 December 2025
Published:
19 January 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajad.20261101.11
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Abstract: This study explores the contrasting evolutionary trajectories and preservation outcomes of indigenous pottery traditions in Northern Ghana and South Korea from the mid-1970s to the present. Pottery, a transformative Neolithic innovation, embodies both cultural identity and utilitarian value. Yet, modernisation, globalisation, and shifting social priorities pose significant threats to its continuity. Unlike much scholarship that treats traditions in isolation, this research adopts a cross-cultural comparative framework to theories mechanisms of cultural evolution. It juxtaposes Northern Ghana’s community-based, ritual-oriented model now strained by urbanisation and economic displacement with South Korea’s institutionalised, state-driven approach, which integrates technological innovation and heritage policy to foster resilience. Through this design, the study highlights the socio-political, economic, and institutional conditions shaping the sustainability of intangible cultural heritage. Findings reveal how modernity differently impacts artistic practice, economic viability, and identity preservation across contexts. By clarifying these dynamics, the research contributes to theoretical models of cultural evolution while offering practical insights for heritage policy. Ultimately, it underscores the need for adaptive strategies that balance tradition and innovation, ensuring indigenous crafts remain vital cultural resources in a rapidly globalising world.
Abstract: This study explores the contrasting evolutionary trajectories and preservation outcomes of indigenous pottery traditions in Northern Ghana and South Korea from the mid-1970s to the present. Pottery, a transformative Neolithic innovation, embodies both cultural identity and utilitarian value. Yet, modernisation, globalisation, and shifting social pr...
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Research Article
Collage as a Sustainable Environmental Practice - Centred on Nigerian Female Avant-Garde Artist Osague
Akprara Amos Osakor*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
11-18
Received:
1 December 2025
Accepted:
22 December 2025
Published:
19 January 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajad.20261101.12
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Abstract: This paper discusses recycling of “off-cut” fabrics as materials for mixed-media collage-making activities centred on Osague Osagiede Paulina; the Nigerian Female avant-garde artist. With the aid of the internet, journals, books and others, the collage activities of some female artists - Sienna Martz, Kara Williams, Wangechi Mutu and, Njideka Akunyili Crosby - were studied to point out some related patterns, similarities of concept and materiality to Osague’s. For the purpose of this study, the Judgemental sampling technique was used in selecting sixteen (16) mixed-media collages from Osague’s oeuvres. Those selected were analysed revealing some of the philosophy and passion underpinnings her creating collages based on her childhood memories. The descriptive/narrative readings of the (16) collages - as visual-data - was achieved with the following themes - playful times; alone and together and, so on. In conclusion, this paper is of the view that Osague’s collages are significant contributions in narration of the “story” of a resolute artist who, being female, faces a number of challenges masked in social-constraints; of identity; emotional abuses; depravity and others. This paper recommends the collage-making approaches of this artist should be adopted by knowledge seekers in art and design as a resource material in teaching, learning and research in sustainable environmental practices.
Abstract: This paper discusses recycling of “off-cut” fabrics as materials for mixed-media collage-making activities centred on Osague Osagiede Paulina; the Nigerian Female avant-garde artist. With the aid of the internet, journals, books and others, the collage activities of some female artists - Sienna Martz, Kara Williams, Wangechi Mutu and, Njideka Akuny...
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