The Aesthetics and Educational Significance of Public Sculptures at Mankessim

As the traditional headquarters and paramountcy of the Fante ethnic group of Ghana, Mankessim is replete with rich history, culture, and traditions that cannot be overlooked. Consequently, this historical community's historiography and anthropological reception have been instantiated and objectified with several public sculptures. This article is premised on the truism that public statues automatically become social properties and allow the public to evaluate, interpret, or ascribe meanings that may differ from the artistic intent. Drawing on descriptive case study design, we examined the aesthetics and the educational significance of the public sculptures in Mankessim. Apart from observation, a sample of 16 participants including three art teachers, three students, four residents of Mankessim, two traditional sculptors, and four traditional leaders were selected through the purposive sampling technique for interviews. The study underscores the multifaceted role of public sculptures: they bridge aesthetics, cultural memory, and education. The study a deepened effort to enhance aesthetic literacy and promote engagement with these sculptures. This knowledge will contribute not only to mere appreciation of public sculptures but also to the preservation of collective wisdom and values of a people.