Utilization

Wax designs have evolved over the years from simple spots and repeated images to those which interpret particular events. New designs featuring domestic comforts like knives and forks, chickens and wooden pounding vessels, landmarks such as mountains and even political leaders appear all the time. The wax design is still evolving, like the t-shirt, but incomparably more elegant and useful, it is a valuable medium for personal, political, social and religious expression. As an art form as well as a beautiful, convenient garment, the kitenge wax has become an integral part of African culture. While contemporary designs are produced all the time, traders say the most popular are the familiar classical designs appearing again and again, often having a life of thirty years or more. Feedback for producers comes directly from the traders who sell the prints. New designs incorporate new commodities as they become available in the African context. Vitenge wax also become commemorative as they focus attention on a past or forthcoming event, be it political, social or religious. Many celebrate the independence of countries, usually depicting political leaders, in particular those who led the country to its independence from colonial rule. The designs are powerful and emblematic and can reflect and assert national identity.