Exploring Wealth and Culture Narratives in The Ornamentation of Bank of Ghana Architecture

Abstract

The use of ornamentation in architecture is one of the strategies that has been employed by institutions like banks over the years to communicate their values and ideals to the public. More so, it has been observed that Bank of Ghana as a corporate organization has developed the tradition of employing ornamentation in some of their important buildings to communicate, cultural identity and wealth. This study, therefore, explores the essence and expression of wealth and culture within some of the ornamentations in the architecture of Bank of Ghana (BoG) located in Accra, Kumasi and Tamale metropolises. This study employed a qualitative method of research using observation, field notes, library research and photographic documentation as a means of gathering and analyzing data. It was observed that BoG buildings in the three metropolises were all purposefully ornamented with a strong presentation of wealth and cultural narratives that truly contextualize Ghanaian aesthetic values, ideals, philosophy, history and culture. The bank employs these themes and imagery to depict and promote concepts of culture and wealth in the architectural ornamentation. Among