Symbolic Significance of Concrete Wall Murals

Abstract

This article identifies and examines the symbolic significance of two-story concrete wall murals in Takoradi, which currently evidences the need to decode the irreplaceable glimpse into the diversity of Ghanaian culture for future use while maintaining their original meaning and purpose. The qualitative research approach was adopted using unstructured interviews and on-site direct observations for the data collection. The study discussed two-story wall murals in concrete: 'Fear not Osahene, your redeemer lives', and 'love supersedes all gifts'. Eight (8) research participants, namely, artist (1), building owner (1), architect/building engineer (1), art lecturer (2), and resident (3) from Windy ridge-Takoradi, Ghana, were purposively selected for the study. Data were analysed using visual and interpretive analysis tools. It was revealed in the study that the two-story concrete wall murals exemplified intricate patterns through the use of design elements and principles that reflected a geometric representation of human forms and as a symbol of divinity. It is recommended that the incorporation of Ghanaian values such as proverbs, Adinkra motifs, objects, tales, and myths should be developed by artists to produce more of the wall murals in its environmental space.