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Tag: Olowe Museum

  • Ekiti to host fundraiser for Olowe Museum

    Ekiti to host fundraiser for Olowe Museum

    Chairman, Board of Trustee, Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, has said financing the Olowe of Ise Museum in Ise Ekiti will require significant financial resources for its construction, acquisition of artworks and operational support. He stated that the Olowe Museum project is not that of Ekiti State Government but of all Nigerians who share in the vision of the board. According to him, Ekiti state government is collaborating with both individuals and corporate bodies in the realisation of the project.  

    He stated that the recognition of Olowe of Ise’s genius has sparked efforts to preserve his legacy and promote a deeper understanding of his contributions to art.

    Senator Ojudu who spoke in Lagos on Sunday disclosed that a fundraising event for the Olowe of Ise Museum will be hosted by Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos on October 27. 

    “The fundraising event holding on October 27 at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos will be an opportunity for patrons of the arts, corporate moguls and the general public to contribute to the landmark project,” he said. 

    He noted that museums and scholars have worked to document Olowe’s life and works, ensuring that future generations continue to learn from his example.

    “In Nigeria, efforts are underway to celebrate Olowe’s legacy by preserving his works in situ and educating the public about his contributions to Yoruba culture and the broader world of African art.

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    “At the forefront of these efforts is the construction of the Olowe of Ise Museum, a project designed to honour the life and work of this remarkable artist. The museum will be built on the grounds of Olowe’s original workshop in Ise Ekiti, providing visitors with an immersive experience of the environment in which Olowe created his masterpieces. Through the museum’s exhibitions and educational programmes, it will offer a deeper understanding of Yoruba art and culture, as well as the profound impact that Olowe’s work has had on the global art world,” he added. 

    Director General National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NMCC), Mr. Olugbile Holloway reiterated the commission’s commitment to Olowe of Ise Museum noting that NCMM’s role is to preserve the heritage, but to preserve it in a way that generations can learn about themselves. “I feel that heritage is really the reason why we live. If we can’t preserve our heritage, then we want to lose it,” he added. 

    Chief Nike Okundaye who was represented by her daughter, Ms Aina Davies said Nigerians must embrace the culture to document, preserve and showcase their heritage adding that as a nation lots of investments have been made in other sectors of the economy. To her, now it’s time to really invest in our heritage.

    Unfortunately, we are chasing what the West has, while the West has taken what we have. The West has lost its culture. They look up to countries and indigenous cultures to be able to recreate their way forward. So, while we are chasing them, let’s pause.“

    Objective of the museum is the preservation of legacy, to safeguard the works of Olowe and ensure future generations appreciate its contributions to the African cultural home. The museum will become a center of cultural pride for the Ekiti people, and a destination for international artists to share their colors.

    The museum when completed will house galleries and workshops where the history and techniques of the art gallery will be studied and taught. It will also boost local communities, create jobs, and contribute to the cultural economy of the state.

    The late Olowe of Ise was more than just a master carver; as he was a visionary who used his art to bridge the gap between the earthly and the divine, the traditional and the innovative, the local and the global. His works, while deeply rooted in Yoruba traditions, speak to universal themes of power, spirituality, and the human condition. As one of the most important African artists of the 20th century, Olowe’s legacy continues to inspire artists, scholars, and art lovers around the world.

    Among BOT members and guests at the briefing at Nike Art Gallery, Lagos included Olayiwola Olayinka (architect for the museum), Dr. Alex Nwobu, Abiola Adlana, Prince Ade Ajayi and Dr. Gbemisola Akinwale. 

  • Olowe Museum: Honour for unsung hero

    Olowe Museum: Honour for unsung hero

     Eighty-seven years after his death, renowned carver Olowe Ajalemo aka (Olowe of Ise) is bringing great fortune and attention to the socio-economic landscape of his home town, Ise.  His ancient home located on Ofingba Street, Ise-Ekiti is designated as the heart of a world-class Olowe of Ise Museum to be built by the Ekiti State Government to preserve his legacies. No fewer than 11 houses in the community will give way to the multimillion naira museum project. In few years, artistic works of Olowe, which will be housed in the museum, will drive global tourists and researchers to the sleepy town of Ise-Ekiti, Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME reports.

    A trip from Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital to Ise via Ikere isn’t a long distance. It is also not a smooth ride due to the state of the road. After few turns on arriving at Ise, ‘that is the house’, the tour guide said, as the driver applied the brake. A roll of rusty-roofed mud houses dotted the roadside with little or no touch of modernity.

    Like many houses in the community, Olowe’s mud house on Ofingba Street exhibits nothing artistic. Though partially plastered with cement, it does not reflect the persona that Olowe was, as an artist of global repute. No carved doors, no wall murals or embellishment, no wooden posts or pillars. Except for the shrine in front of the house and a worn out and weather beaten grinding stone, which Olowe used to sharpen his tools then, nothing striking.That stone was last used by Olowe about 90 years ago. Welcome to the ancestral home of the master sculptor, the late Olowe of Ise, who passed on 87 years ago. He died at the age of 83.

    In conjunction with Olowe’s grandson, Mr. Olajide Ologbon Olowe, the Director-General Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre and Senator Babafemi Ojudu, have initiated a movement to remake that mud house, turn it into Olowe Museum, and begin a campaign to recover those stolen Olowe’s works and taken abroad.

     It was a historic moment and a dream come true for the families of the late renowned carver Olowe of Ise-Ekiti as Governor Abiodun Oyebanji took a step at realising the establishment of Olowe Art Museum in Ise.  

    Few minutes after the inauguration of the board by Oyebanji, a delegation of the Trustees of Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation visited the sleepy community and were greeted with excitement.  In fact, their joy knew no bond as the museum will ignite recognition and reckoning for the state and Ise community in particular.

    “The Olowe of Ise Museum under the stewardship of the foundation is poised to serve as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of history and cultural significance of the world renowned carver, a true custodian of Yoruba artistic excellence. Olowe of Ise mastered pieces reflect the depth of our cultural heritage, the finesse of Yoruba art and the ingenuity of our ancestors.

    “The establishment of the museum is not simply an act of preservation, it is a steadfast commitment to safeguarding our heritage, celebrating artistic contributions and presenting a legacy of future generations. With the inauguration of the board of trustees, we are laying a foundation for this noble endeavour and calling upon you to serve as the guiding force in upholding the mission and vision of the Olowe of Ise Art Foundation.” These were the reassuring statements from Oyebanji while inaugurating the 13-member board of trustees of the Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation.

    The governor, who described the late Olowe of Ise as a true custodian of Yoruba artistic excellence, whose masterpieces reflect the depth of cultural heritage, finesse of Yoruba art, and the ingenuity of ancestors said the Olowe of Ise Museum, under the stewardship of the foundation, is poised to serve as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural significance of the world-renowned carver.

    He said it is also to serve as the guiding force in the state’s bid to showcase her artistic heritage and position the state eminently on the global stage. According to him, the foundation would also drive the state’s initiative for a modern museum where the works of the world renowned carver, the late Olowe of Ise, would be housed to promote tourism.

    Among the trustee members are Proprietor Shyllon Museum, Omooba Yemisi Shyllon, Chief (Mrs) Nike Okundaye, Prince Tunde Odunlade, Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, and Senator Babafemi Ojudu (chairman). Others are former Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Emeritus Prof Lawrence Kolawole; State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akintunde Oyebode; Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre; Ms Abiola Adelana, Mr Ologbon Olowe, Dr Mike Adeoye and Architect Olayinka.

    Expressing confidence in the competence and dedication of the appointed trustees, the Governor noted that their collective expertise, foresight and passion for cultural heritage will steer the foundation towards sustained success and global recognition.

     “Ekiti State, the people, and our government are lucky to be able to gather men and women of integrity and immense talent as yourselves to carry out this assignment. In our midst today is Engr. Yemisi Shyllon, Prince of Egbaland, an engineer, lawyer, and renowned collector and proprietor of the biggest private museum in Africa. Our mama, Chief Nike Okundaye, needs no introduction.

    “Her footprints dominate the art world like a colossus. All of you, including our two senators, Babafemi Ojudu and Olu Adetunmbi, who are distinguished in your own rights and contributions not only to the art world but also to the development of this country.

    “We cannot but also mention the Zion of the Olowe family, Mr. Ologbon Olowe, who in his own way has kept the family legacy going, and of course, the younger Turks among you, Wale Ojo Lanre, Akin Oyebode Jr., Abiola Adelana, and Dr. Mike Adeoye, who are either collectors, art aficionados, enthusiasts, or educators.

    “May I also specially recognise Prince Tunde Odunlade, an artist and curator who has been on this journey with us? Thank you, Arc Olayinka, for your labor of love since you heard about this project and for your architectural and design expertise. Emeritus Professor of Physics, former Vice Chancellor, and a chronicler of sorts on Olowe of Ise, having himself been born and raised in Ise-Ekiti, Professor Lawrence Kolawole is representing the Ise community on the Board. Some have asked, Why such an important and monumental project in Ise and not Ado-Ekiti, the state capital?

    “We are deliberate in our decision because we want to ensure that every nook and cranny of this state has one thing or another that will attract and take people there so that development and growth will be even.

    “In no time, other communities in this state will have institutions that will ignite recognition and reckoning, as Ise is experiencing today with this initiative,” he said.

    The works of the late Olowe of Ise who died in 1934 dot major museums in America and European countries.

    Director-General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre described the gathering as a significant milestone in the Oyebanji’s led government and remarkable in his commitment to honoring the legacy of Olowe of Ise, an outstanding sculptor whose artistic brilliance has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of our world.

    To him, despite leaving the earthly realm unrecognized, Olowe of Ise has achieved global acclaim through his awe-inspiring works of art. “From the halls of Europe’s renowned museums to the hearts of art enthusiasts, his sculptures have transcended time and space, reflecting the essence of our heritage and captivating audiences with their sheer beauty and intricacy.

    “Today, as we gather here, we also proudly acknowledge the visionary leadership and foresight of the Governor of Ekiti State, who has graciously pledged to build a museum in Ise Ekiti, bearing the name of Olowe of Ise. This museum will serve as a sanctuary where the treasures of our cultural heritage will be preserved, cherished, and shared with the world, for generations to come.

    “I am delighted to announce that the Board of Trustees of the Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation is comprised of eminent stakeholders – individuals who possess immense knowledge, expertise, and a deep passion for the arts. Their presence here today is a testament to their unwavering commitment in furthering the cause of cultural preservation and heritage promotion. Together, we embark on a collective journey to ensure that the remarkable artistic genius of Olowe of Ise is celebrated and cherished, not only within the confines of our state but throughout the world.

    “The significance of this event extends beyond the realms of art and culture. Cultural tourism plays a pivotal role in the advancement of our state, as it brings economic growth, fosters cross-cultural exchange, and enhances the overall well-being of our communities.

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    ‘The Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation, under the guidance of the Board of Trustees, holds the key to unlocking the immense potential of cultural tourism in Ekiti State, bridging the past with the present, and paving the way for a prosperous future.

    “With their collective wisdom and expertise, the Board of Trustees will lead the way in preserving the legacy of Olowe of Ise, nurturing artistic talent, and crafting an environment that supports and encourages the growth of our cultural heritage. Through their efforts, we will showcase the rich tapestry of our history, inspiring both locals and visitors alike to appreciate and celebrate the immense beauty and significance of our cultural identity.

    “In conclusion, I express my heartfelt appreciation to each and every member of the Board of Trustees for accepting this noble responsibility. Your commitment to this cause fuels our collective aspiration to establish Ekiti State as a beacon of cultural pride and a haven for artistic expression.

    “Together, let us embrace this new chapter with optimism and enthusiasm, confident that our efforts will truly honor the legacy of Olowe of Ise, uplift our communities, and shape our shared cultural narrative for generations to come”.

    In his remark, Chairman Board of Trustees, Senator Babafemi Ojudu said the BOT would work assiduously to ensure that Olowe’s Museum is successful and become a conduit of cultural exchange with global communities. He said members of the board would embrace roles with dedication and sense of responsibility by fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation and diversity to ensure that the museum becomes a center of artistic dialogue and cultural enrichment.

    Oba Ayodele Ajayi, the Arinjale of Ise –Ekiti described the event as a dream come true, noting that he never believed that the realisation of the dream of a museum and recognition for the renowned carver would come so soon. He expressed the appreciation of the people of Ise-Ekiti to the Governor for citing the museum in the town. Present at the event were Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the State House of Assembly, members of the state executive council and chiefs and representatives of Ewi-in-Council.