Welcome to the future Olowe of Ise Museum, envisioned as a living tribute to the life, legacy, and masterful artistry of Olowe of Ise (circa 1854–1938), one of Nigeria’s most iconic and influential sculptors. This museum, to be realized under the vision of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and guided by a dedicated Board of Trustees, will celebrate Yoruba culture, history, and art. Once completed, it will preserve and showcase the exceptional wood carvings and artistic genius that Olowe introduced to the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Join us in supporting the creation of this important cultural landmark, which will honor both the legacy of Olowe and the rich traditions of Yoruba artistry for generations to come.
Our Mission
At the Olowe of Ise Museum, our mission is to preserve, protect, and promote the artistic legacy of Olowe of Ise for generations to come. With a dedicated space already secured in Ise-Ekiti, we are working towards creating a world-class museum that will serve as a beacon of cultural preservation and education. Our key objectives include:
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Repatriating Olowe’s works currently held in foreign collections to their rightful home.
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Offering an exceptional museum experience that enhances cultural tourism and stimulates the local economy.
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Promoting education and community engagement through exhibitions, interactive programs, and artistic initiatives.
This museum will ensure that Olowe’s extraordinary contributions to art and culture remain a lasting source of inspiration and pride for future generations.
The Legacy of Olowe of Ise
Olowe of Ise (Circa 1854–1938), born in Efon-Alaaye in 1854, was brought to Ise-Ekiti in 1860 by his mother, Orisamekun, under the instruction of his grandfather, Akinrogun, who was originally from Ise-Ekiti. Olowe’s grandfather had settled in Efon-Alaaye, where his son, Ajalemo (Olowe’s father), was born. Akinrogun’s decision to send Olowe to Ise-Ekiti played a crucial role in shaping the young artist’s future.
Olowe was a renowned Yoruba artist, celebrated for his innovative wood sculptures and contributions to oju-ona design. Commissioned by King Arinjale of Ise-Ekiti, he created numerous works from his palace in Uligi Colony and his land at Eti Oro. He also practiced his craft on his large farm along Urintan in Ise-Ekiti. Olowe was the High Chief Priest of OGUN in Ise-Ekiti, deeply involved in traditional religious rites. During the OGUN Festival, he played the sacred drum, Agere Esu, and once it sounded, no other drums were allowed to be beaten for seven days to honor OGUN. His unique skills and spiritual role earned him widespread recognition across Yoruba land.
Olowe’s work gained international recognition in 1924 when his intricately carved door and lintel ensemble were showcased at the British Empire Exhibition in London. This piece was later acquired by the British Museum, cementing Olowe’s place in the global art scene and highlighting the beauty of Yoruba craftsmanship on an international stage.
Olowe’s sculptures are celebrated for their detailed and dynamic compositions, often depicting scenes from everyday life and Yoruba mythology. His ability to imbue his works with movement and vitality set him apart as a master sculptor. His dedication to his craft and the cultural significance of his works reflect the rich artistic heritage of the Yoruba people.
Olowe passed away in August 1938, but his legacy continues. Today, his pieces are housed in museums and collections worldwide, captivating audiences and inspiring future generations of artists. This website showcases select masterpieces of Olowe of Ise, many of which will be part of the permanent collection of the Olowe of Ise Art Museum, ensuring that his artistry continues to inspire on a global scale.
Exhibitions & Collections
As part of the future Olowe of Ise Museum, we are planning a series of carefully curated exhibitions that will celebrate the genius of Olowe of Ise and his lasting influence on both traditional and modern art. Although the museum is still in the planning stages, we envision the following exhibitions as part of our future collections:
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Verandah Posts and Royal Carvings: A display of intricately carved posts originally designed for royal palaces, showcasing Olowe’s mastery in combining strength and delicacy within Yoruba art.
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Cultural Artifacts: A collection of objects from Olowe’s era, offering visitors a glimpse into the rituals, traditions, and everyday life of the Yoruba people during his time.
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Modern Interpretations: Featuring contemporary Yoruba artists whose work is inspired by Olowe’s techniques, this exhibition will highlight how his storytelling and artistic approach continue to influence today’s creators.
These future exhibitions will offer a dynamic space for learning and appreciation, preserving Olowe’s legacy and inspiring new generations. Join us as we work toward bringing this vision to life.
Educational Programs
We are deeply committed to education and cultural preservation as part of our vision for the future Olowe of Ise Museum. Once established, the museum will offer a variety of educational programs designed to engage, inspire, and preserve the rich legacy of Yoruba artistry and African history. Planned programs will include:
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Hands-on workshops for young artists, where participants can learn traditional techniques such as wood carving.
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Art history courses for students, providing insights into Yoruba art and the broader context of African creativity.
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Symposiums featuring cultural historians and curators, offering deep explorations into the life and works of Olowe of Ise and the influence of Yoruba art on the global stage.
These programs are designed to inspire a new generation of artists, scholars, and cultural custodians as we work towards building a center for knowledge and creativity. Join us in making this vision a reality!
Notable Collaborations & Partnerships
We are proud to lay the foundation for future collaborations with both international and local institutions as part of our mission to celebrate and preserve Yoruba art and culture. Our envisioned partnerships will include:
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The British Museum and Musée du Quai Branly for international exhibitions and art exchanges, fostering global recognition of Yoruba artistry.
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Local artisans and historians for educational initiatives aimed at preserving traditional techniques and sharing the rich heritage of Olowe of Ise.
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Upcoming Projects Documentary: “Olowe of Ise: A Master Carved Legacy” – This forthcoming documentary will explore Olowe’s global impact, delving into his artistic legacy and the resonance of Yoruba wood carving traditions. The film will premiere in 2024, offering a comprehensive view of his work’s significance.
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Fundraising Event – A major fundraising event will take place on 27th October 2024 to support the development of the museum and the important work of repatriating Olowe’s masterpieces to Nigeria, ensuring they remain a central part of Yoruba heritage.
These projects reflect our commitment to building a world-class institution dedicated to preserving Olowe’s legacy and promoting cultural knowledge globally.