TRANSLATING LOCAL GEOMORPHOLOGY INTO TACTILE RELIEF: OFF-LOOM HAND-TUFTING AS A MODERN INTERPRETIVE MEDIUM FOR PLATEAU STATE LANDSCAPE ART

This study addresses the need for modern textile practices to interpret and promote Nigeria's natural heritage, specifically the unique landscapes of Plateau State. Despite the area's rich geomorphology, its artistic documentation through contemporary textile techniques and exploration, such as hand-tufting, remains limited. Furthermore, the aesthetic values of these natural sites are increasingly threatened by issues like illegal mining (Ada & Ayodele, 2010). The primary goal of this research is to produce hand-tufted rugs that are directly inspired by Plateau State’s landscape formations using the off-loom technique. The study utilizes a qualitative, studio-based participatory approach, focusing on the visual analysis of five distinct locations. The core of the methodology involved developing a systematic protocol for translating 2D photographic data into 3D tactile textile forms through precise control of yarn density and pile height. The findings successfully demonstrate that off-loom hand tufting is a highly effective expressive medium and can be used by manipulating pile height to create textural variation, the technique accurately renders volumetric effects and atmospheric perspective, thus, transforming the textile from a flat surface into a high-relief artwork. This work validates hand-tufting as a fine art medium for cultural preservation and promotes an innovative approach to Nigerian craft and design.