TRADITIONAL HAUSA CLOTHS: A COMPARATIVE COLLECTION OF SOKOTO AND KEBBI STATE

Project Abstract

Traditional Hausa cloths hold significant cultural and historical value in Nigeria, particularly in Sokoto and Kebbi states. This research project aims to conduct a comparative collection of traditional Hausa cloths from these two states to explore the unique characteristics, designs, and cultural significance of the garments. The study will involve fieldwork to document various traditional weaving techniques, patterns, and motifs used in the production of Hausa cloths in Sokoto and Kebbi states. The research will employ a qualitative approach, utilizing interviews with local weavers, artisans, and experts in Hausa textile traditions to gather in-depth insights into the cultural meanings attached to different types of traditional cloths. Additionally, the study will involve the collection of samples of Hausa cloths from both states for comparative analysis in terms of materials, colors, patterns, and weaving styles. Furthermore, the project will explore the historical background of traditional Hausa cloths in Sokoto and Kebbi states, tracing the evolution of weaving practices and the cultural influences that have shaped the designs over time. By examining the socio-cultural context in which these cloths are produced and worn, the research aims to highlight the role of Hausa textiles in preserving cultural heritage and identity among the Hausa communities in Nigeria. The comparative analysis of traditional Hausa cloths from Sokoto and Kebbi states will provide valuable insights into the diversity and richness of Hausa textile traditions in different regions of Nigeria. The findings of this research can contribute to a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of Hausa cloths and their role in shaping identity and community cohesion among the Hausa people. In conclusion, this research project on traditional Hausa cloths in Sokoto and Kebbi states will offer a comprehensive comparative analysis of these textiles, shedding light on the unique characteristics and cultural meanings associated with different types of Hausa garments. By documenting and analyzing the weaving techniques, designs, and historical background of traditional Hausa cloths, the study aims to contribute to the preservation and promotion of Nigeria's rich cultural heritage in the field of textile arts.

Project Overview

<p>INTRODUCTION<br>1.1 BACKGROUND OF STUDY<br>Nigeria, among other African countries is known for her different<br>varieties of traditional cloths ranging from one ethnic group to the other. The evidence can<br>be seen from all the thirty six states in Nigeria; the clothing style of the eastern Nigeria diets from that of the northern Nigeria as so on.<br>Clothing is anything placed on the body to adorn or to motivate behavior (John and Foster, 1990). It includes all the different garments, accessories or<br>ornaments worn by people as well as their make-up and styles. Theories have attempted to explain the motivation factors underlying clothing choices and<br>decision. Such theories include: modesty, immodesty, protection and adornment theories (Marshal Jackson, Stanley, Kefgen and Touchie 2000). Modesty<br>theory focuses on standard regarding the area of the anatomy to be concealed and state that clothes are worn solely to conceal or cover nakedness (Marshal<br>et al. 2000). Various cultures have rules about modesty that relate to their use of clothing. The immodesty theory on the other hand states that clothing is not<br>to cover nakedness but to attract attention. The argument here is that wearing of garment is far erotic than in going without them (Marshal et al. 2000). The<br>protection theory view physical protection and psychological protection as major reasons of purpose of wearing clothes.<br>Dress or clothing is a kind of garment worn by people of all cultures since pre-historic times. Different peoples of the world have their unique dress culture.<br>The materials used for making dresses range from cotton, wool, silk fabric to flax fabric and rubber. Dresses that people in all cultures wear are determined by<br>a number of factors. The main factor that has determined, and is still determining, the variety of clothes in different times and locations, is climate (Braun,<br>2005). In Nigeria for instance, we have the rainy season and the dry season, with their characteristic cold and hot temperature. Dress culture therefore has to<br>bow to the prevailing weather condition. Dress culture has also been aected<br>by changing styles or fashion in vogue. Other factors that influence the dress<br>that people wear are the availability of materials, cost of materials, technology of the period, peoples’ social status, human migration, religious tradition,<br>assimilation of various traditions, social cosmopolitan outlook or modernity, travels and perhaps colonization, conversion and nationalism.<br></p>