A seat in time: jewelry inspired by legacy of the Adanya stool

Abstract

A SEAT IN TIME: Jewellery Inspired by the Legacy of the Adanya Stool is a design project that explores the rich cultural heritage of the Lango people of Northern Uganda through the creation of contemporary jewellery. Centered around the Adanya stool-a traditional, handcarved wooden seat symbolizing authority, respect, and identity-this project seeks to reinterpret its form, symbolism, and historical significance into wearable art. The Adanya stool, often reserved for elders and leaders, carries deep meaning within the Lango community as a marker of wisdom and social status. By translating its visual and cultural language into jewellery, this project aims to preserve and celebrate this heritage in a modern context. The resulting collection reflects the stool's distinct features-such as its geometric shapes, curves, carvings, and organic textures-through innovative jewellery techniques and carefully selected materials. This project not only bridges past and present but also promotes cultural storytelling through design. It serves as a reminder that everyday objects, like a seat, hold powerful narratives and can inspire new forms of expression that honor and revive fading traditions.