The Fascinating “Fantastic After Life Vehicles” of Ghana: A Unique Cultural Attraction

Ghana, a dynamic country in West Africa, is well-known for its abundance of historical and cultural sites. The nation has established a niche for itself in the international tourism market over the years by providing distinctive goods that pique tourists’ interest. Ghana offers a wealth of tourist attractions, from the tranquil beauty of the Kakum National Park to the moving history preserved in the Cape Coast Castle. The art of burial, however, is one of its most intriguing features and something that many visitors might not first anticipate.

The Rise of “Fantastic After Life Vehicles”

Among the many ways in which Ghana expresses its cultural diversity, the tradition of artistic coffins, known as “Fantastic After Life Vehicles” (FAV), has become an unexpected draw for tourists. This unique form of coffin art, originating from the Ga people in coastal Ghana, reflects the social status, occupation, and passions of the deceased. The coffins are intricately designed, often fashioned into objects that symbolise significant aspects of a person’s life.

These “afterlife vehicles” are not just a means of burial; they are seen as vehicles that represent the deceased’s journey into the afterlife. This fascinating burial tradition is steeped in cultural symbolism, which makes it a must-see for visitors curious about Ghanaian customs and artistry.

The Artistic Tradition and Its Origins

The practice of creating these beautifully sculpted coffins can be traced back more than fifty years. The tradition began with the work of Kane Kwei, a local carpenter whose innovative designs changed the way people thought about funerary art in Ghana. Initially, Kwei was just an ordinary carpenter, but his work grew in recognition when a wealthy fisherman’s family requested a coffin that symbolised his occupation. The fisherman’s family chose a lobster-shaped coffin, setting the stage for a creative revolution in Ghana’s burial practices. Kane Kwei’s creations, originally crafted out of wood, soon became a signature of the Ga people’s burial traditions.

The coffins are built in various shapes and sizes, each chosen to reflect a particular trait or profession of the deceased. Some coffins are crafted in the shapes of cars, fish, sewing machines, or even bottles of beer. Others reflect symbolic aspects of the deceased’s life, such as animals, mobile phones, or tools. The diversity of the designs highlights the personal nature of the tradition, with each coffin designed to represent something meaningful to the person who has passed away.

Cultural Significance and Symbolism

The FAV tradition is deeply rooted in the belief that the deceased person continues their journey in the afterlife, a belief shared by the Ga people and reflected in the coffin designs. Just as the ancient Egyptians filled their tombs with provisions for the afterlife, the Ga people believe that a beautiful and carefully crafted coffin will help the departed transition smoothly into the next world. This belief has turned the process of coffin-making into an art form, with highly skilled artisans dedicated to creating these symbolic pieces.

The coffins are traditionally brightly coloured, with rich hues of red, yellow, blue, and green, making them visually striking. This vibrant artistry contrasts with the more sombre nature of traditional funeral rites, as it celebrates the life of the deceased in vivid colours. The belief is that the coffin not only protects the deceased but also symbolises the spirit’s journey to the afterlife in style.

The Artistic Process and Tourist Experience

Visitors to Ghana, particularly those touring the Greater Accra area, can view these fascinating coffins at various art galleries. One such gallery is located near the Labadi Beachfront, where visitors can experience the intricacies of coffin art firsthand. Tourists are often stunned by the scale and creativity of the coffins, with sculptures ranging from animals and vehicles to everyday objects that represent the deceased’s passions. These coffins can be worth hundreds of dollars, with some reaching prices of $700 or more.

Galleries displaying these coffins offer a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about this culturally significant practice. The guide explains the symbolism behind each design, giving tourists insight into the social and spiritual context of the tradition. For many, the experience is eye-opening, revealing an unexpected side of Ghanaian culture that is both fascinating and thought-provoking.

The Economic Impact of FAV Coffins

While the tradition of FAV coffins is primarily a cultural and spiritual practice, it has also had an economic impact on the local economy. The artists who create these coffins often find themselves in high demand, with customers willing to pay a premium for these one-of-a-kind pieces. The craft has become a source of livelihood for many in the region, especially in the Greater Accra area, where the tradition is most prevalent.

In addition to their cultural significance, FAV coffins have become a key part of Ghana’s tourism offerings. The unique nature of the coffins attracts international visitors who seek a deeper understanding of Ghana’s customs and history. Many tourists, particularly those from the African diaspora, visit Ghana specifically to explore these burial traditions, which have become a point of pride for the country. Despite the potential risks and challenges that come with the tradition—such as the threat of theft—the practice continues to thrive as a symbol of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.

The Future of FAV Coffins in Ghana

While the tradition of FAV coffins continues to thrive, it faces challenges. The cost of creating such intricate coffins is high, and for some families, the expense can be overwhelming. Despite this, the tradition remains an important part of the Ga people’s cultural identity. The Ghanaian government has recognised the cultural significance of the FAVs and is working to ensure that this art form is preserved for future generations.

For tourists, the opportunity to witness this unique aspect of Ghanaian culture is a rare and enriching experience. The FAV coffins add a new dimension to Ghana’s growing tourism industry, offering visitors something beyond the usual landmarks and attractions. As Ghana continues to promote its history and culture, the FAV coffins stand out as a remarkable and fascinating part of the country’s identity.

Conclusion

Ghana’s “Fantastic Afterlife Vehicles” combine artistic expression with profound spiritual significance to provide an enthralling look into the nation’s rich cultural traditions. Exploring this unusual form of burial art offers visitors looking for something off the usual route a memorable and instructive experience. The FAV coffins provide a unique product that highlights Ghana’s inventiveness, spirituality, and cultural diversity as the nation works to increase its tourism profile.

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