Depiction of cultural aspects of the Swahili of Lamu Island using a combination of natural plant pigments as painting media
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Date
2025-11
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
The study showcases the unique cultural aspects of the Swahili of Lamu Island, such as marriage, music, architecture, textiles, and body decoration, through the use of their natural plant pigments as a painting media. It addresses the challenges of decline of Swahili culture and natural plant pigments not significantly exploited for in artistic expression. The research identified the cultural aspects and the natural plant pigments associated with the Swahili traditions, such as cooking and body adornment. Compositional design elements were derived from these cultural aspects of the Swahili of Lamu Island through sketching. Potential natural plant pigments for artistic expression were then established by conducting experiments with binders on selected surfaces. Later, the researcher illustrated the cultural aspects of the Swahili of Lamu Island using natural plant pigments as a painting media. The study employed an experimental research methodology for the purpose of natural plant pigments. It also engaged ethnographic approaches to examine the Swahili culture of Lamu Island. Fieldwork was carried out to document cultural aspects and intentionally sample natural plants from the Swahili of Lamu Island. The pigments were extracted using a hybrid method that combined both traditional and modern laboratory techniques. The pigment extracts were tested with binders on selected surfaces to develop a color palette for creating the final depictions. The study's findings confirm that natural plant pigments act as a medium for artistically preserving Swahili culture. The study recommends the use of natural plant pigments in artistic practice. These efforts will significantly enhance cultural ownership in Africa and protect indigenous knowledge.
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