Welcome to
Ọlọ́wẹ̀ of Ìsẹ̀ Museum
At the heart of Yoruba culture and African art, the envisioned Olowe of Ise Museum will stand as a living tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of Olowe of Ise (circa 1854–1938), one of Nigeria’s most celebrated sculptors. To be located in the historic town of Ise-Ekiti, this museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Olowe’s masterful wood carvings—timeless symbols of Yoruba heritage and cultural pride. His intricate works, renowned for their bold forms and fluidity, continue to inspire admiration across generations, celebrating the enduring traditions of Yoruba artistry. The Olowe of Ise Museum, once brought to life, will not only honor a master of his craft but also serve as a beacon of cultural preservation and artistic innovation. We invite you to be part of this monumental project that will forever enshrine the genius of Olowe and the vibrant cultural legacy he represents.
Discover the Legacy of a Master Sculptor
Olowe of Ise’s works have become synonymous with creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling. His dynamic sculptures and architectural carvings, such as royal palace doors and verandah posts, continue to inspire awe in art lovers worldwide. His ability to infuse life and narrative into wood made his works some of the most sought after by royalty and museums alike, from The British Museum to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and Musée du Quai Branly in Paris.
Explore Our Collections
Our permanent collection includes some of the finest examples of Olowe’s artistry, alongside cultural artifacts from Yoruba history. Exhibits include:
Royal Carvings
Cultural Artifacts
Modern Connections
Educational Programs & Workshops
At the future Olowe of Ise Museum, we envision more than just a space to showcase art—we aim to create a vibrant hub of learning and creativity. Once established, our educational programs will cater to students, scholars, and art enthusiasts of all ages. From guided tours to hands-on workshops on traditional Yoruba art techniques and insightful lectures on African art history, our goal is to deepen the understanding and appreciation of Yoruba culture.
Future visitors will have the opportunity to join workshops that teach the basics of wood carving, or participate in symposiums led by renowned cultural historians and curators with deep expertise in African art. These programs are designed to inspire the next generation of artists, historians, and cultural custodians, keeping the rich legacy of Yoruba artistry alive for years to come.
Be part of this exciting journey as we work towards building a space that will not only honor the genius of Olowe of Ise but also foster cultural knowledge and creativity.
Upcoming Documentary: “Olowe of Ise: A Master Carved Legacy”
We are excited to announce the upcoming release of our documentary, “Olowe of Ise: A Master Carved Legacy.” This film delves deep into the life, artistic genius, and cultural significance of Olowe of Ise, one of the most influential sculptors in African history. The documentary will explore his lasting impact on Yoruba art, highlighting his groundbreaking techniques and the enduring relevance of his work in global art circles.
Through in-depth exploration of Yoruba traditions and Olowe’s unique style, the film offers a rare insight into his remarkable contributions to African art and culture. Stay tuned for the documentary’s release, and keep an eye out for special screening events as we continue our journey toward the realization of the Olowe of Ise Museum.
Collaborations & Global Partnerships
As we prepare for the future Olowe of Ise Museum, we are already fostering collaborations with leading institutions and cultural figures around the world. Our vision includes partnerships with prestigious museums, such as the British Museum and Musée du Quai Branly, to ensure that Olowe’s legacy and Yoruba art continue to receive global recognition. We also plan to engage with local artisans and community leaders, bridging the gap between traditional and modern expressions of Yoruba creativity.
Support Our Mission
Although the museum is still in development, we are a non-profit initiative dedicated to the preservation of Yoruba culture and the exploration of African art. Your support is crucial as we move closer to bringing this vision to life. Contributions will help fund educational programs, future exhibitions, and the preservation of Olowe’s remarkable legacy for generations to come. We invite you to consider making a donation, becoming a member, or sponsoring one of our future exhibitions as we work towards building this important cultural landmark.
Plan your visit
Visit Us today and experience the timeless beauty of Yoruba art through the eyes of one of its most iconic figures.