Colour Symbolism and Its Significance: Okuapenman Odwira in Focus

Abstract

This study explores the symbolic use of colours in the celebration of the Akuapem Odwira Festival in Ghana, focusing on how colours on attire reflect cultural, spiritual, and historical meanings. Using a qualitative approach and semiotic analysis, the research examined the colours worn on each day of the festival and interpreted their significance based on cultural context. Grounded in Roland Barthes’ semiotic theory, the study highlights the relationship between the connotative meanings of colours among the Akuapim people. Findings reveal that colour functions as a critical visual language in the festival, conveying messages of grief, joy, reverence, and unity. The research concludes that colour symbolism is integral to understanding the cultural depth of the Odwira Festival and emphasizes the need for continued scholarly attention to such non-verbal elements of traditional African celebrations.