MST-Department of Fine Art and Design

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A descriptive analysis of the perception of images in selected posters by contemporary kenyans: a case study of Masaku district and Nairobi area
(1990) Miano, Kahare
The Problem Graphic communication in print media form that is available in Kenya sometimes is not sensitive to the perceptual abilities or aesthetic preferences of the public. It's importance in today's world can not be overstressed. The extent to which the Kenyan public is able to identify images in posters as well as gather information from same is often anybody's guess. Hence the need for regular analyses of the various poster designs that various institutions have been using. For this particular research, posters designed for the Ministry of Health, the United Nations body, selected consumer products and for purely decorative design were used to analyse the problem. Procedure The researcher selected fourteen posters that constituted as large a variety of designs as possible and an interview-schedule was designed. This was followed by the random selection of people from an urban and a rural environment. There were two hundred people from Nairobi area and two hundred from Kikima in Masaku District. They were categorised on the basis of five factors, namely, vi a. age-group; b. formal educational level; c. sex; d. occupation and e.' physical environment which the researcher considered an important factor that could easily be overlooked. Data gathered from the field sought to determine whether these factors had a significant bearing on the peoples' ability to correctly interpret information in the variety of posters. Findings The data gathered was analysed on the basis of four basic skills exhibited by the interviewee. a. Interviewee's ability to identify pictorial image. b. Interviewee's ability to read and understand text in English and Kiswahili. c. Interviewee's ability to see colours. J. Interviewee's ability to interpret posters correctly. For the first three skills, the influence of formal educational level was not significant. However, interpretation of the posters was very dependent on the interviewee's formal educational level and previous experience with visual material either formally or informally. Another interesting observation was that ability to identify pictorial image, colour and text did not always reduce uncertainty in the interviewee, as the researcher had expected. vii Conclusions The study has, indeed, thrown some light on the abilities of the Kenyan public to interpret information in posters. We can expect the public that has a formal education of secondary school level to interpret,correctly~information carried in posters that have non-representational images even if they are poorly des igned. For those interviewees without a secondary school education but who were able to interpret it, their past experience with visual material often made it possible for the message to get through. Since the majority of the Kenyan population do not have secondary school level education at present, graphic designers must make posters that use clearer and simpler imagery that uses less text if they are to reach them effectively
Utilization of selected weaving techniques to design and create fine hand woven fabrics
(Kenyatta University, 2000-04) Nguku, Everlyn Kamene
Utilization of Selected Material Culture of the Eastern Bantu of Kenya with a View to Adapting and Adopting the Motifs for Fabric Decoration for Interiors
(2001-06) Kung'u, J.W.
The study and application of Ankole tradition artifacts and motifs in product development for small scale weaving industries in Uganda.
(2011-07-20) Tusaasiirwe, Penilope; Adonija Ombura; Paul Nkuubi Kasana
This creative project is composed of several chapters that is Introduction. Literature Review, Methodology, Analysis of results, Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations. The research topic for this project was." The study and application of Ankole traditional artifacts arid motifs for Product Development in Srnall-scale weaving industries in Uganda'. The project aimed at studying Ankole traditional artifacts and motifs as an inspiration for design, exploring available materials, tools and to produce soft furnishing items, inspired by the above traditional artifacts and motifs. Data relating to design and design inspiration, material culture, product design and fordevelopment was reviewed and discussed in relation to this project. Data was collected in Bushenyi and Mbarara districts in western Uganda and these districts were purposively selected for the research. The tools used for collectinb data were observation and photography, interviews, and library search. The data collected was interpreted into meaningful ideas suitable for production in weaving. Studio work was divided into three sessions namely; preparation, experimentation and production phases where all the proposed number of items were produced. The Ankole traditional artifacts according to this study were divided into five categories namely basketry, pottery, wooden items, textiles, and architecture. These categories guided the researcher into producing a variety of products for her exhibition. A total number of twenty items as proposed were woven. The researcher considers this project a success because she has been able to demonstrate that product diversity can be created through proper utilization of material culture for design. The researcher recommends that a deeper study be conducted on how to preserve indigenous crafts materials. Craft items be preserved and collected for study -purposes starting at district levels.
Enhancing the visual identity of the physical image of Kenyatta University Campus
(2012-02-09) Shoko, Zainabu Imani
The idea behind this creative project was born of a lack of an evident and appropriate signage system within the Kenyatta University Campus. This in turn led to a lot of confusion especially to those visiting the campus, be they regular visitors or freshmen students. Following an extensive research and study period it was realised that the various sections within the university campus could be divided into seven main areas namely: Faculties; Departments; Hostels; Areas non-related to Kenyatta University faculty structure; Administration offices; Recreational Facilities; Road Signs. This distinctive division between the various sections enabled the researcher to develop a systematic and comprehensive signage system to accommodate these sections. Various key points were taken into consideration before selecting the designs for the signboards: • Their communicative ability in terms of clarity in typography, directive in pictography and identity in colour scheme; • Their appropriateness in terms of size and representation. The suggested material for the fabrication of the signboards had to be easily available locally and affordable. Metal was the only medium befitting the high quality demand, with an extensive life-span if properly prepared. At the same time, the use of good quality paint and a finish of clear lacquer to protect the undercoats and give the signboard a lasting sheen was to be employed.
Creative use of leather for the production of selected articles for the enhancement of specific interior spaces in Kenya
(2012-02-10) Adhiambo, Benta G.
This is a report on procedures and processes that were applied in the production of leather articles for use the in enhancement of selected interior spaces as defined in the project proposal. The project focuses on techniques of leather decoration employed independently or in combination. It also focuses on research on other uses of leather and execution of the project. Most processes, techniques and materials used alongside leather to enhance its aesthetic value as a piece of art work or as a decorative upholster have been included in this report. Experiments carried out and discoveries made are also included. This report is divided in to the following sections: Introduction, which summarizes the content of report; definitions and brief explanations of technical terms; an explanation of the problem being solved by the project and means through which the problem has been solved. Factors that affected the entire project such as limitations of leather as the material in use have also been outlined as well as a brief historical overview of use of leather as an interior decoration material with reference to related literature and other sources of information. The discoveries of other uses of leather other than clothing have been outlined. Also included are processes through which the project passed, starting with preparation of designs from sources of inspiration to production of final leather pieces. It also gives presentation of final results and outcome in the form of drawings, photographs and the actual leather pieces and their stages of development. Conclusion and suggestions that potential /future artists, craftsmen and other interested groups could use to improve their knowledge and skill are part of this report
Expoloration of selected Kenyan ethnic decorative designs and motifs, and the adaptation of these designs in the decoration of contemporary ceramic ware: a case study of the Coastal region
(2012-04-04) Kithu, Stephen Muindi
The focus of this study was to select coastal ethnic designs, adapt and apply them as decorations, on contemporary ceramic ware. These designs were collected from Nairobi and Mombasa. Forty four samples of ethnic designs were collected in the form of photographs. From the total number of samples collected, seventeen designs were found to be applicable. From these, eleven design combinations were developed and utilized. To enable the designs to stand out, stains and oxides were used. Stains were used at a percentage not exceeding 3% to the clay body while oxides were used at a percentage not exceeding 5%. In addition to these on glazes were also used. Three main decorative techniques were used in the application of the designs onto the ware. These were: i) Impression ii) Incision/Excision iii) Stencil. A part from these decorative techniques, other techniques were also utilized such as marbling, flow method, Neritage, painting and spraying. After application and firing, the ware was glazed using either opaque or transparent graze.
Akamba sculpture as a means of visual communication: its origins, development and functions
(2012-05-10) Muoko, Matthews
This inquiry investigates the origins, the use, the development and the rationale of sculpture among the traditional and the contemporary Akamba Societies. It further investigates those factors within the environment which influenced the artistic skills, competence and orientations for the total creation of the sculptural forms and designs. The study's main hypothesis is that sculpture was made, used and existed among the traditional Akamba societies before the first world war of 1914 to 1918, which many scholars refer to as the beginning of this art amongst the Akamba. Further hypothesis states that the demand for sculpture sprung from the Akamba Cultural needs and therefore the art was used as a means of cultural expression alongside dances, riddles, tales, songs and wise sayings. The study looks into the availability and choice of raw materials and the constructions of the various sculptural properties such as size, form, and topic. It further looks into the sculpture's functional characteristics and the possibilities for innovations. Some of the shortcomings of the previous studies are discussed and their contribution and setbacks assessed. The major difference between these early works and this inquiry is that while these early investigations tried to cover the Akamba arts in general this study confines itself to sculpture. Data collection procedures used are: (a) Oral interview. (b) Observations. (c) Drawings. (d) Photography. Fifty-one specimens of Akamba traditional sculpture are studied, described and used as illustration for this study. Problems arising from these proceedings are outlined and the ways employed to solve them stated. The main hypothesis is upheld and the evidence to support it presented using specimen photographs, drawings and data charts. Lastly, recommendations and measures to be taken by particular groups of people in order to improve the usage of the Akamba sculpting skills and products are outlined. These recommendations are based on observations and data implications. The inquiry stresses the adoption and integration of traditional and modern ideas and values in order to create a positive attitude in observers towards sculpture. Specifically this inquiry seeks to fulfill the following objectives: (a) To determine the extent to which sculpture was and is used by the Akamba with a view to suggesting effective use and practice of sculpting. (b) Explain the factors which hinder the effective use of this art. (c) Find out the main instructional value contained in sculpture. (d) To establish sculpture as a means of instruction/communication in educational institutions and public. (e) To recommend new strategies for the utilization of scupting skills.
A study of factors that negatively affect the teaching of art education in Getembe and Keumbo division of Gusii district
(2012-06-04) Ombwochi, Bosire
There is a worldwide revolution in the primary school education with a major aim to meet the needs of the learner and the society. This move has been well received in Kenya. The recently declared innovations in the Kenya’s Primary Education are an attempt towards this end. Since the new 8-year primary education emphasizes, among other things, the essence of art education in the total education of the learner; and realized that there has been no research done specifically on the state of art teaching in the primary schools, it became necessary for an investigation to be made to find out whether or not, art education was affected by some factors within the schools’ set-up. The researcher assumed that improved teaching in art education would enhance the attainment of educational objectives for primary schools. Therefore the study sought to reveal variables within the head teachers, the art teachers, the pupils and the environment, which are thought to affect the teaching of art negatively. However, the study faced three limitations: inadequate finances, limited time and absence of previous research on the issues. The sample for the study consisted of primary school art teachers and grade six pupils from twenty schools sampled from two divisions of Gusii District. The collected data was analyzed and reported in percentage form. The findings of the study revealed that in Gusii District, art education was negatively affected by acute shortage of art materials, equipment and facilities; many teachers lacked competence to handle the subject; inadequate supervision on art; absence of seminars and in-service course in art; the low opinion held by both the head teachers, art that there was little relationship between school art and community art.
A descriptive analysis of the kilning techniques and types of day used by the traditional potters of Lyamagale village in Western province of Kenya, with view to suggesting improvements
(2012-06-04) Otenyo, Margaret M. N.
This study was concerned with finding out what causes pottery wastage in Lyamagale village, Western province of Kenya, when traditional techniques are employed. In an attempt to determine the specific cause (s) several tests were done. Ten clay samples were collected from different places within the province and analyzed. This was done in order to find out the chemical composition, physical properties and whether they were appropriate for potter making. The pottery-making processes from the collection of the clay to the firing and even selling of the ware, were observed and analyzed. This clay plus two other clays namely, a Nyeri and a Modified Nyeri clay used in the ceramics studio at Kenyatta University, were experimented with to find out whether the type of clay used, the building or kilning techniques or a combination of any of the techniques contributed to wastage. With this in mind, a total number of 240 experimental pots was moulded from the three clays. Two buildings techniques, the coil (hand built) method and throwing on the wheel (machine made) methods were employed. The pots were then fired by using four different kilning techniques namely the Bonfire, Sawdust, Gas and Raku methods. From each of the clays, 80 pots were moulded, 20 being fired in each of the four kilning techniques. Of these 20 pots, 10 were built by the coil method and the other 10 thrown on the wheel. The total number of pots therefore fired in each of the kilns was 60 (30 handbuilt and 30 machine made). The results of the chemical and physical analyses showed that the clays were basically similar in terms of elemental composition and that they were appropriate for pottery making, both in composition and in physical properties. The results of the firings which were analyzed by simple percentage showed that: (i) There is a difference in wastage between pots made from Lyamagale clay, the Nyeri and the Modified Nyeri clay; (ii) There is a difference in wastage between pots built by the coil method and those thrown on the wheel (iii) There is a difference in wastage between pots fired by the Bonfire, Sawdust, Gas and Raku Kilning techniques. In the case of the Lyamagale clay it was observed that the best combination was the coil method and the Bonfire firing which produced 0 percent wastage. The second best combination was the Gas and Raku methods which both had 10 percent wastage with equal wastage from both building techniques. The worst kilning technique was the Sawdust firing which produced 100 percent wastage. It was further observed with the Lyamagale clay that both the building techniques produced 30 percent wastage, suggesting that the kind of building technique employed does not contribute to wastage. The best combination in the Lyamagale clay is apparently the combination the traditional potters used: yet, unlike the results of the experiments, it produced 23.5% wastage. The wastage, it was assumed, occurred because of factors such as: (i) The time allowed for drying the raw ware was not sufficient. (ii) The method of drying the raw ware was not appropriate. (iii) The kiln construction and firing procedure were not appropriate. The researcher gave suggestions on ways of preventing wastage and possible kiln constructions that would not only retain heat but also attain a temperature high enough to vitrify the ware.
Mise-en-Scene in Serial Drama Edutainment: A Case of Setting in Siri, a Locally produced Entertainment Education Serial Drama ln Kenya
(2014-03-03) Gitimu, Susan N.; Mugubi, J.; Otieno, Simon Peter
With the growth of entertainment education (E-E) serial dramas worldwide and the extensive evaluation research on their impacts on the audience, techniques employed during their production have received a short shrift in E-E research. One of the most noticeable techniques in a serial drama production is the mise-en-scene technique and this study examines the role of setting an element of mise-en-scene in a serial drama edutainment. In this study, it is argued that in the hands of skilled E-E producers, setting and objects placed on the set (Props) becomes a concrete vehicle for impacting on an E-E serial drama edutainment. By viewing setting both as an entity and a symbol as well, SIRI a locally produced serial drama in Kenya was studied with the objectives to; 1. Identify the functions of setting on the plot 2. Examine the relationship between setting and characterization and 3. Examine the contribution of setting in the realization of emerging themes. Systematic data gathering consisted of watching the drama to identify how the directors employed setting to effect on the plot, characterization and emerging themes. Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) which revolves around the process of learning directly related to the observation of models formed the theoretical basis for the study. Data obtained was examined and analyzed in line with the study objectives. The study found that setting is part of the material fabric of a serial drama edutainment. Enlivened by the actors presence, charged by the dialogue and quickened in the audience imagination setting and objects placed on the set take on a life of their own as they weave in and out of a dramas action impacting on an E-E serial dramas edutainment. The study also resulted in useful findings for film critics, producers and health communicators.
Availability and utilisation of traditional material culture in fashion design
(Kenyatta University, 2015-01) Okeyo, Jacqueline A.; Orchardson-Mazrui, E.; Ombura, A.
The diverse cultures of many Kenyan communities may have not been explored adequately when it comes to the utilisation of traditional material culture for Fashion Design. This study sought to explore the availability and utilisation of material culture of some Kenyan communities as a source of inspiration in contemporary Fashion Design. The objectives of the study were to analyze material culture used by Fashion Designers in Nairobi, Kenya and also to identify the challenges facing the Kenyan Fashion Industry in relation to cultural significance. The study was anchored on two theories of fashion: ‘The Language of Cloths' by Lurie (2000) and ‘Power and Style' by Gaulme (2013). The first theory explains that clothing is a form of communication while the second explains the evolution of costume. The conceptual framework illustrates how Contemporary Fashion Design (Dependent Variable) can be inspired by Material Culture (Independent Variables) with the design being influenced by historical and contemporary influences (Intervening Variables). A descriptive research design based on an historical approach was used to provide both quantitative and qualitative data. The secondary data was sourced from The National Museums of Kenya, The National Archives and Institutional Libraries all based in Nairobi. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and face to face interviews. The secondary data gave historical information on the availability and utilisation of Kenyan material culture sourced from different Kenyan communities while primary data gave information on the utilisation of material culture on contemporary Kenyan Fashion. The target population was sourced using stratified and snowball sampling methods. The selected population consisted of College/University students, Formal and informally employed consumers and Fashion Shops/Houses that produce and sell culturally-inspired products. The primary data was analysed using descriptive statistics in three stages: data reduction, data display and conclusion drawing. The findings of this study indicate that material culture, as a source of inspiration, has not been adequately utilised in Kenyan Fashion Design due to a variety of reasons. Therefore the overall recommendation of this study is to sensitize both the Kenyan market and the Fashion Industry on the availability and utilisation of material culture as a source of inspiration for contemporary Kenyan Fashion Design and the Kenyan Fashion Design Industry in general
Artistic changes in the development of the Catholic Church vestment in the archdiocese of Nairobi Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2015-10) Ameleya, Habby
The rich history of the Catholic Church vestment in Kenya is likely to be lost if it is not documented as most faithful do not know the origins, changes or significance of the vestments. Thus, Christians may not appreciate the artwork in the vestments that symbolize the historical background of the Catholic Church. The general objective of this research was to identify and establish the symbolism of designs, colours, and form attached to the Kenyan Catholic church vestments from 1950 to date. The study adopted both quantitative and qualitative research approaches and employed a descriptive survey study research design to assess catholic vestments in Kenya. The target population of this study was 288 vestments of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi. Simple random sample and purposive sampling methods were used to arrive at the representative sample. The data was collected through primary and secondary methods of data collection. The data was analyzed qualitatively by observation of the changes over the period according to themes derived from the objectives. The findings of this study showed that there have been changes in the vestment design over the period. These were changes in design, colour, form, and new methods of adorning the vestments. From this research the researcher proposes a further study to be done in other regions and on specific communities, and that the trained artists should partner with the vestment designers to maintain high quality design work on vestments.
Selected prominent people of Embu county of Kenya as a source of inspirations for protrait painting using rice as an exploratory material
(Kenyatta University, 2016) Ireri, Ignatius Njue
Production of paintings inspired by the fusion of selected Kenyan Maasai and Nigerian Fulani material culture
(Kenyatta University, 2016) Ahmed, Muktar Usman
This study produced paintings through hybridization of material culture from two selected African communities. Hybridization in art happens when material cultures from two or more communities combine to create new forms. Current contemporary African art has been reported to have European styles infused. This infusion has been criticized by scholars to lack portrayal of African identity. Scholars have also argued that authentic African paintings could be achieved when two or more African material cultures are hybridized. This study aimed at identifying Kenyan Maasai jewelry material culture and Nigerian Fulani textile material culture used in their rites of passage and which could be hybridized. After hybridization, new compositions of material culture were created. This new outcome was used in the production of paintings. The paintings incorporated the application element and principle of art and design, such as colour, shapes, rhythm, variety, emphasis, texture, line and geometric patterns inspired by the collected forms. The resultant paintings confirmed that hybridized designs of Maasai jewelry and Fulani textiles could be successfully used as a source of inspiration in the production of paintings. The results of this study should also enable African artists to develop their original paintings inspired by material culture from different African communities. This hybridized process will also promote cultural harmony between selected African communities.
Glaze formulation using selected geological material from Lake Nakuru and Kiambu Counties, Kenya
(2016) Ayieng’a, Lillian Barongo
The use of glazes and glaze formulation has evolved over time and glaze styles have been developed with characteristics of certain world regions, out of the use of locally available materials. A pilot study conducted in three studios within Nairobi to assess the use of local glazes/formulations revealed that the studios did not use local glazes or formulations and that there was need for research on local glazes and formulations. Based on the above, this study was concerned with using locally available geological material from Nakuru and Kiambu Counties to formulate glazes to be used on ceramic ware for ceramic artists in Kenya. The study set out to collect data of 52 geological materials for formulation; 29 from Nakuru County and 23 from Kiambu County. These materials underwent a wet milling grinding process using a porcelain ball mill at Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI). After which, they went through a studio testing process of low and high firing tests with temperatures, of 10500C and 12000C on small slabs of Nyeri clay and thereafter an elimination of 13 samples for formulation. The 13 samples underwent a qualitative and qualitative certified chemical analysis test using an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (Spectr AA- 10) at the Ministry of Mining. The test results were used in formulating 145 glaze recipes by introducing additives that generated glaze compositions which gave both functional and aesthetic qualities for application on ceramic ware. The results of the majority of the glaze formulations affirmed their use on ceramic ware. To confirm that the findings would be of benefit to practicing ceramic artists, two clay samples of ceramic studios within Nairobi; Jacaranda Workshop and Wakenii Creations were also tested and they received the glazes well. The geological materials studied were therefore found to be suitable for glaze formulation and could be put to use by local ceramic artists. Further research should be done into the improvement and generation of more colour range and textural effects of glaze formulations for mass production in ceramic manufacturing.
Exploration of Use of Flowers in the Creation of Paintings for Aesthetic Enhancement of Hospital Spaces in Nairobi City County
(Kenyatta University, 2016) Gitura, Mary Wamucii
This study aimed at exploring the use of flower paintings as a means of aesthetically enhancing interior spaces of public hospitals within Nairobi City County. The study was based on recent studies conducted in the United Kingdom and the United States of America where researchers found art to be an important aspect of hospital interior set ups because it helps to create a pleasant environment which can be conducive to healing. The study observed that there was a general lack of art in most public hospitals within Nairobi City County. The study therefore sought to create flower paintings which can be suitable for hospital spaces. This involved the creation of sketches derived from flowers commonly found in Nairobi City County. The sketches then led to the creation of oil and acrylic paintings of flowers on canvas. The study observed that introducing the natural beauty of the outdoors by way of flower paintings, into often depressing, drab and dreary hospital interiors can greatly help to create cheerful, friendly, warm, beautiful and less intimidating spaces for patients, staff, caregivers and other hospital users. Flower paintings displayed on hospital walls can help to create an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere which can be conducive to healing by reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. On the basis of the findings of this study and in view of the limited paintings found in public hospitals, the study recommended that as a means of aesthetically enhancing the interior environments, County Governments, through the Ministry of Health, should find ways of commissioning talented artists to create paintings depicting scenes of nature to be displayed in public hospital spaces such as reception areas, corridors and wards
Strategic Marketing Management Practices Employed By Local Garment Making MSES and Their Effect on Competitiveness in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2018-10) Owaga, Grace Awino
The Kenyan local garment making industry is characterized by slow growth and faces stiff competition from low priced imports. Extensive research has been carried out on the evident preference of imported clothes over locally made garments as well as the challenges facing locally made garments. These challenges range from fit to the value offered for locally made garments. However, the practice of managers of Micro and small sized enterprises, abbreviated as MSEs, in the local garment making business as far as increasing their business competitiveness has obtained limited attention. There are gaps in knowledge of both the active and proactive responses of the managers and their strategic management practices directed towards increasing competitiveness in the industry. The study sought to address these gaps in knowledge. The objectives of the study were to: determine the effect of strategic management practices employed by managers in local garment making MSEs with respect to the product concept, the price concept, the promotion concept and the place concept on competitiveness. The conceptual framework for the study was drawn from the 4 Ps of the marketing mix and the Supply Chain (SC) frame work. The study adopted a cross sectional descriptive research design to collect data, analyze and present. A pre- test was carried out on 10 MSEs at the Nairobi Textile who were not included in the final study. The pre-test was carried out to ascertain reliability of the data collection instrument. A Cronbach’s value of α=0.79 was acquired. Respondents for the main study were selected from garment making MSEs in Nairobi County Central Business District (CBD) registered in the Kenya Business List. Questionnaires served as the data collection instrument to gather in- depth information. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the independent variables. Regression analysis was used to analyze the effect of each of the marketing mix strategies on competitiveness. ANOVA was used to test the Null hypothesis and to determine the effect of each of the marketing mix variables on competitiveness. The study found out that marketing management practices employed by managers of local garment making MSEs had a statistically significant effect on competitiveness. Price and Product were found to be the highest contributors to local garment making MSEs competitiveness, while Promotion and Place were the least. The uniqueness in garment designs as well as strategies to handle complaints arising from the locally made garments are the variables within the product concept that promoted competitiveness the most. The study also revealed that product branding and package branding were the practices least utilized by local garment making MSEs. R2 (Coefficient of determination) was found to be at .7136, which implied the marketing mix variables contributed to 71.36% of MSEs competitiveness. The study recommends that the management of all aspects of the marketing mix variables should be enhanced in garment making MSEs to maximize competitiveness.
Exploration of Smoke as a Medium for Painting in the Depiction of Maasai Culture in Kajiado County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Rupante, Tobiko; Kamau Wango
Fumage is a smoke painting technique that some artists used in the 1930s. Despite it being an old technique, it has proven less popular in the modern art arena. In contemporary times, very few painters are still exploring the media with different techniques that could be appealing to human eyes. Although this has been used and proven to be effective at the time in other countries like South Africa, U.S.A, Canada, and Britain, based on the researcher’s survey, it has not been exploited in the Kenyan art scene. Yet its technique and usage appear compatible and potentially useful for local artists, particularly because of its usage as local material. In light of the above gap, this study examined how smoke has been utilized by artists as a medium for painting both locally and internationally to find out the widespread use of the medium by artists as well as uncover existing knowledge regarding the technique. The study explored smoke as a medium for painting through practice by carrying out a total of 672 tests, where smoke produced by an oil lamp was exposed on various conventional and non-conventional painting surfaces of sizes 5cm by 5cm. The tests were grouped into five major categories based on the: physical characteristic of smoke produced by burning three selected hydrocarbons (turpentine, kerosene, and diesel), surfaces, techniques used, a combination of colour and smoke, and preservation methods, with each category assigned a code. The data yielded from each category was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively and the conclusion was drawn. Some of the desirable test results were used in the application on a creative project where some tangible aspects of Maasai culture were identified, collected, and analyzed through sketching then projected through smoke painting. The resultant smoke paintings confirmed the practicality of the usage of smoke in the production of work of art or as a medium of artistic expression. The outcome of this study would benefit local artists who would wish to use the medium by utilizing information that was achieved in this study concerning the medium.
Evaluation of Appearance Management Behaviour among Students in Institutions of Higher Learning in Meru County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2021) Ngunu, Alice Njeri; Jacqueline Kisato; Isabella Waruinu Wandaka
Appearance management (AM) encompasses the sum total of attention and activities that are used by an individual to control how he/she presents the body to himself/herself and to others. Appearance management comprises clothing, good grooming, dieting, body building and use of cosmetics. Clothes and physical appearance are important in non-verbal communication. Some appearance management is usually performed as a routine and carrying them out cannot result in any harmful effects on health, while some AMB, can threaten health especially if they are carried out for long period of time, and could have long-lasting effects. The study set to investigate issues on AM among students in institutions of higher learning in Meru County. The study set out to explore how knowledgeable students were about AM, establish the importance of AM, and determine what guided the students in the process of AM. Further, the study sought to investigate whether there was any relationship between personality, gender, age, self-esteem, body image and AM of the students under study. The study sought to establish the effects of peer influence on AM and establish if students engaged in risky AMB. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 373 students from technical institutes and universities in Meru County. A questionnaire with open-ended, close-ended and five-point Likert scale questions was utilized in collection of data. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analyses were conducted on the data. Majority of the study respondents agreed that financial constraints influenced both clothing preference (85.1%) and grooming activities (69.1%) whereas societal demands (61.7%) influenced only their preference for clothing. Respondents said AM is not how a person looks (80.9%) neither is it what a person wears (83.4%) nor other peoples‟ perception (94.9%) but it referred to actions and decisions on the way a person looks (62.6%). One in three students (36.0%) mainly bought clothes once in every three months. They felt they were not useless (62.3%), respected themselves (52.3%), neither did they think they were no good at all (59.4%) nor inclined to feelings of being failures (68.0%). They felt motivating (65.1%), efficient (64.6%), contented with themselves (61.7%), observant (64.3%), cautious (64.3%), curious (56.3%), thoughtful (60.6%), detailed (57.4%) and diplomatic (67.4%), highly sociable (59.1%), warm-hearted (53.1%) and confident (50.9%). Personality (r = 0.833, p <0.001), self-esteem (r = 0.689, p <0.001), peer influence (r = 0.764, p <0.001) and body image (r = 0.764, p <0.001) were positively associated with appearance management. In conclusion, personality, gender, age, self-esteem, peer influence, and body image were significantly associated with AMB. There is a need for students to live within their means in respect to appearance management activities.

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