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Graduation Term
Summer 2026
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
School of Theatre, Dance, and Film
Committee Chair
Bruce Burningham
Committee Member
Li Zeng
Committee Member
Le'Mil Eiland
Abstract
This research work joins the conversation on performing aesthetic identity with a particular focus on a selected Ghanaian music video, Manodzi by Ghanaian artist, Stonebwoy featuring Beninese-French singer, Angelique Kidjo. Extant literature on this topic has shown that identity is performed through actions and interactions. While, the essence of identity is debated among scholars to include concepts such as, importance, salience, social construction, ethnicity, religion, culture and mutual construction, there has been minimal research on how aesthetic identity is portrayed in Ghanaian music videos. The thesis shows that the concept of aesthetics is viewed by scholars from a Eurocentric point of beauty, however, post-colonial theorists in Africa have explored African aesthetics to have diverse meanings beyond beauty within art and craft, rhythm and design and as abstract ideas. Using the theories of African aesthetics and semiotics, the study examines how Stonebwoy and Angelique Kidjo use visual objects, especially costumes to perform levels of aesthetic identities in the Manodzi music video. The study reveals that African, Ghanaian and European artifacts were used symbolically to depict aesthetic in the music video.
Access Type
Thesis-ISU Access Only
Recommended Citation
Quashigah, Lawrence Prince Senam, "Performing Aesthetic Identity in Manodzi Music Video by Stonebwoy and Angelique Kidjo" (2026). Theses and Dissertations. 2396.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/etd/2396