Adinkra is a cotton cloth produced in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire with traditional Akan symbols stamped upon it. The Adinkra symbols are multilayered metaphors that represent evocative proverbs, maxims and parables, record historical events, express universal values, and concepts uniquely related to how we treat one another.

Adinkra cloths made from yellow or white cotton fabrics are worn for happy occasions, such as weddings, naming ceremonies or rites of passage, whereas dark colors are traditionally used for funerals. Adinkra means “goodbye” and is a non-verbal communication of farewell to the deceased and condolence to the grieving family.

Adinkra at the Bronx Zoo 8/2010

Other workshops for children:

• African Cuisine for Children
• African Games
  
• African Dance & Songs
• Storytelling
  
• Tie-Dye Handkerchief or Scarf
• Shekere Gourd Instrument
• African Mask Making
  

Authentic Stamps & cloth

Adinkra symbol designs are cut out of gourds, and then thin wood sticks, bound with twine, are attached to the gourd pieces to make handles. Authentic Adinkra stamps and Adinkra hand-stamped cloth and factory printed cloth are part of the workshop display.

In addition to teaching the concept of proverbs, this workshop also teaches children diversity awareness, racial tolerance and brotherhood in a fun and hands-on way. Children have the opportunity to create their own mini Adinkra cloth or greeting cards using the "art of silent oratory."

For more information or to book this, or another exciting workshop at your venue, please contact us anytime! We look forward to hearing from you.

Contact: Akua N. Ishangi

Tel: 862-218-5414 or email info@ishangi.com or akua@ishangi.com