Digital illustrations of select Ibibio symbols in clip art for computer applications: A focus on human grouping

Abstract

Ibibio symbols appear not to be assembled in clip art packages. Therefore, there is obvious lack of Ibibio traditional clip art in computer applications. Thus, an Ibibio graphics designer does not have a readymade repository of the symbols where they can be picked and used with ease as the need arises. This, therefore, constrains Ibibio designers to use images that are misfits in most designs that have traditional Ibibio themes. It is against this backdrop that this study was undertaken. The aim of the study was to create clip art in Ibibio symbols for computer applications. The objectives were to select Ibibio symbols in clip art for boys and girls category; to make digital illustration of select Ibibio symbols in clip art for culture category; make digital illustration of select Ibibio symbols in clip art for dance category; and make digital illustration for play category. The study gathered data from secondary and primary sources. Sketches, photographs and Adobe Photoshop Software were adapted complementarily for the illustrations. The study revealed that it is possible to create digital illustrations using Ibibio symbols for computer application in clip art. The study recommends that more digital illustrations of Ibibio and other Nigerian and African cultural background clip art should be created. Same should be profusely used by Ibibio designers, and others, in their design content so as to popularize Ibibio symbols. The study also recommends that Apps on Ibibio clip arts and emoticons should be created by software designers.