SWOPA Pottery and Mural Motifs as Mathematical Artefacts: An Ethnomodelling Approach.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21831/ej.v7i2.102087Abstract
Drawing on ethnomathematics and ethnomodelling theories, this paper analyzes the geometric concepts embedded in Sirigu pottery and mural designs. Its aim is to reconceptualize Indigenous arts as mathematically significant, using Rosa & Orey’s theory of ethnomodelling (emic-etic-dialogical) approach alongside decolonial scholarship. The analysis finds that Sirigu motifs systematically feature geometric patterns: reflectional and translational symmetry in the Naafo (cow) motif, congruent translations in the Akun Nyanani (cattle procession) strip patterns, rendition-dependent rotational, reflective, or periodic structure in the Waafo (python) motif, and triangular tessellation and interlocking curvilinear bands in Zaalin-daa/Nyanga, each mirroring the motif’s cultural meaning (e.g., social order, renewal, gender protection). Interpreting these motifs through mathematical lenses, the paper reframes them as mathematics in another form, supporting D’Ambrosio’s view that all cultures have distinct ways of mathematizing their realities. The paper contributes to developing the conceptual model for integrating Sirigu cultural knowledge in teaching geometry, demonstrating how combining the emic meanings of the motifs with etic concepts of geometry can enhance students’ identities and knowledge in mathematics. The study also outlines implications for curriculum design and teacher education, advocating professional development on Ghanaian ethnomathematics to enact a decolonized, culturally responsive mathematics pedagogy.
Keywords: Ethnomathematics, Ethnomodelling, Geometric Ideas, Sirigu community,
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