An Application of Selected Yoruba Proverbs for the Illustration of Aesthetics and Design; the Case of Indigenous Patterned Dyed Cloth

Abstract

This study attempts to illustrate the intrinsic socio-cultural values embedded in the YoruÌ€baÌ  patterned dyed fabric with a view to  unfolding the people's perceptions on both the aesthetics and designs of patterned dyed fabrics among the YoruÌ€baÌ  of southwestern Nigeria. The study also synthesizes and evaluates the YoruÌ€baÌ conceptual notions on the patterned dyed fabric both in the past and in our contemporary world. The data for the study is drawn from selected YoruÌ€baÌ proverbs that are regarded as ‘registers' in fabric decoration. These were critically analyzed and interpreted using random and purposive sampling techniques within the Art Historical Methods. The study revealed that use of proverbs in YoruÌ€baÌ patterned-dyed cloth appeared mainly in three forms; as imagery, icons and texts. These are composed into motifs that make the fabric design very appreciable.  These motifs are not only used as a tool to achieving fabric design but they also allow the fabric to communicate. The paper therefore concludes that: the application of YoruÌ€baÌ proverbs will enhance the socio-cultural and aesthetic values of aÌ€dÌ€ireÌ£ which in turn will also promote YoruÌ€baÌ cultural heritage.