Welcome to
Ọlọ́wẹ̀ of Ìsẹ̀
Museum
A Vision in Progress, A Legacy Preserved
Discover the Legacy
A Master of Yoruba Sculpture
Welcome to the Olowe of Ise Museum — a project currently in development. While the physical museum in Ise-Ekiti has not yet commenced, this virtual showcase allows you to explore the extraordinary artistry of Olowe of Ise through works held in the Alexander Nwuba Collection.
At the heart of Yoruba culture and African art, the Olowe of Ise Museum stands as a living tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of Olowe of Ise (c. 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.
Featured Documentary: Master of Wood
We are proud to present Master of Wood, a completed documentary celebrating Olowe’s genius as one of Africa’s greatest sculptors. Watch the film to experience his story and understand why his work continues to inspire generations.
Explore
Virtual Collections from the Alexander Nwuba Collection.
Our online gallery highlights select pieces from the Alexander Nwuba Collection. These works are shared here to honor Olowe’s legacy and to invite the world to engage with Yoruba heritage.
Royal Carvings
Cultural Artifacts
Modern Connections
Learn & Create
Educational Programs & Workshops
We envision more than just a space to showcase art—we aim to create a vibrant hub of learning and creativity. Our programs cater to students, scholars, and art enthusiasts of all ages.
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.
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.
Join Our Journey
Visit Us today and experience the timeless beauty of Yoruba art through the eyes of one of its most iconic figures.