Maslow’s theory of needs as a spice in conceptual textile surface designing

Abstract

African prints are given strategical names by market women in Ghana to sell the products. This is because the people cherish symbolism and admire prints backed by philosophies. Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs has been a source of inspiration for researchers over the years. Although, the famous model has been explored in many disciplines by scholars to obtain substantial results, the area of conceptual textiles surface designing is seemingly not addressed. The study is aimed at juxtaposing textile surface designs with philosophies to stir up the creative abilities of textile surface designers as well as the Ghanaian textile printing industries to meet the demands of the market. It explores Maslow’s hierarchy of needs with the Art studio-based research method in conceptual textile surface designing. Five conceptual textiles surface designs were created at the studio after a market survey to reflect the various levels on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. The results show that philosophies are key factors in the patronage of textile prints in the Ghanaian setting. Incorporation of philosophies in textile surface designs would add more value to the locally made prints. It is therefore recommended that the local textile printing industries would embrace conceptual textile surface designing in their creations to catch the attention of the natives.

Keywords

• Maslow’s Theory of Needs
• Textile Surface Design
• African Prints
• Conceptual Designs