RECREATING THE ULI SYMBOLS ON FABRIC FOR INTERIOR FURNISHING

Uli, a historic town in Anambra State, Nigeria, is home to the Uli symbols, which are traditional Igbo visual motifs with cultural significance in communication, storytelling, and identity. These symbols, originally used on walls, pottery, and fabrics, have recently gained attention in contemporary interior design. Their integration into modern spaces provides aesthetic value whole preserving cultural heritage, supporting local artisans, and promoting sustainable design practices. However, concerns surrounding cultural authenticity, appropriation, and commercialization must be addressed to ensure respectful use. This study explores the incorporation of Uli symbols into interior furnishings, particularly textile materials, through the batik technique. Given the increasing dominance of foreign motifs in local fabric market, this research highlights the need to promote indigenous designs. Textile materials play a crucial role in interior décor, including curtains, upholstery, and wall hangings, making them an ideal medium for reviving Uli motifs in modern settings. A mixed-method approach was adopted, involving both primary and secondary data collection. Primary data was gathered through observations and interviews with textile artists, while secondary data was sourced from books, journals, exhibitions, catalogs, and the internet. The research findings indicate that Uli symbols remain relevant despite modernization, the batik technique is highly adaptable for various designs, and applying Uli symbols to interior textiles enhances aesthetic appeals. Based on these findings, recommendations include further research on sustainable materials, the development of new Uli-inspired designs to suit contemporary tastes, and the organization of training workshops for artisans and designers. These efforts will ensure the preservation, appreciation, and innovation of Uli motifs in modern interior design.