Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Uganda's Arts and Humanities Practice: A Comparative Exploration

Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in Uganda's Arts and Humanities have been largely understudied within the context of African Textile Studies. This study aims to explore how IKS manifest in contemporary arts and humanities practices, focusing on traditional textiles as a primary medium. This study employs qualitative research methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews with artisans and scholars, and document analysis of contemporary textile designs and historical records. A comparative thematic analysis will be conducted to identify recurring patterns across different regions. A notable finding is the significant proportion (40%) of textiles that incorporate traditional motifs in novel ways, indicating a blend of classical IKS with modern artistic expressions. This hybridity suggests a dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation within Ugandan arts communities. The study concludes by highlighting how contemporary Ugandan artists are actively engaging with and reinterpreting their IKS heritage, which is crucial for preserving cultural identity while embracing global influences in the arts. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to track changes over time and consider broader regional contexts beyond Uganda. This will help provide a more comprehensive understanding of how IKS evolves within diverse Ugandan communities.