Lugbara traditional marriage : a visual interpretation of selected ceremonies and symbols among the Aringa

Abstract

This study examined Lugbara traditional marriage ceremonies and symbols among the Aringa subgroup in Yumbe district, northwestern Uganda, with particular emphasis on their cultural meanings and visual interpretation through painting. The study was motivated by the transformation and diminishing knowledge of selected traditional marriage ceremonies and symbols such as booking partners at young ages, payment of 100 arrows as part of bride wealth, family mediated traditional courtship, and transfer of ceremonial gifts. The study utilized a qualitative research approach incorporating ethnographic inquiry, visual artistic inquiry, and studio-based experimentation to investigate, interpret and visually represent the selected Aringa marriage traditions. Data was collected through participant observation, semi structured interviews, focus group discussions and library review study. Purposive sampling technique was used to engage elders, clan leaders, knowledgeable community members and married adults and youths of the Aringa community. The data was analyzed thematically, while studio practice was used to interpret selected marriage ceremonies, associated symbols, and their cultural meanings into painterly forms. The study was guided by Emile Durkheim’s Functionalist Theory, which provided a framework for understanding how marriage ceremonies and symbols contribute to social cohesion, cultural identity, and continuity. The findings established that Aringa traditional marriage comprises interconnected ceremonies, including courtship, family introduction, bride wealth negotiations and bride wealth transfer, Aje (marriage celebration and), and transfer of gifts. The study identified several symbols including bride wealth, mats and stools, communal eating, songs and dance, and the role of elders, family and community. These objects and performative elements carry meanings related to family relationships, respect, responsibility, unity, and social recognition. The visual interpretation further demonstrated that painting can communicate these cultural meanings through contemporary painterly forms, thereby contributes to the documentation and preservation Aringa cultural heritage. Keywords: Aringa, Lugbara, Traditional marriage, Ceremonies, Symbols, Visual interpretation, Painting, Cultural heritage.