Ado-Ikere-Ise, Ekiti State, February 4, 2024: A wave of emotion swept through the air in Ise-Ekiti this Wednesday as plans unfolded to transform the home of the late master carver, Olowe Ajalemo, into a museum. The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, announced the establishment of the Olowe of Ise Museum, dedicated to immortalising the renowned wood sculptor and innovator.
On Ofingba Street, Ise-Ekiti, where Olowe once lived and sculpted, residents eagerly welcomed dignitaries, including Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Omooba Yemisi Shyllon, Chief Nike Okundaye, Wale Ojo-Lanre, and others, forming the Board of Trustees of the Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation.
The humble mud houses on the street, witnesses to Olowe’s historical legacy, are set to make way for the museum. Despite the derelict condition, these houses sheltered the artist as he chiseled his masterpieces, depicting allegorical scenes of pecking birds, servants, Englishmen in litters, and bearded kings on horseback.
Born in 1873, Olowe of Ise, originally Olowere, was a wood sculptor who lived most of his life in Ise. From a humble beginning as a royal messenger at the court of King Arinjale, the Oba of Ise, he rose to become a master carver celebrated for his unique style and deep carvings.
The Olowe of Ise Museum aims to preserve and showcase the remarkable craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural significance of Olowe’s work. The Ekiti State government envisions it as a tourist attraction, spotlighting the town’s rich artistic heritage.
The inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation, led by Senator Babafemi Ojudu, marked a significant step in honoring the late carver’s legacy. The foundation’s mission is to promote the appreciation of Nigerian art and culture, ensuring sustainable growth and global recognition for Olowe’s works.
Governor Oyebanji emphasised that the museum project would put Ekiti State on the world map, showcasing the unlettered carver’s works globally. The board, consisting of passionate individuals with a keen interest in art and cultural preservation, will guide the foundation’s activities.
In his statement, Senator Ojudu expressed satisfaction with the government’s commitment to immortalise Olowe, whose works gained international acclaim. He highlighted the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage, celebrating artistic contributions, and leaving an enduring legacy for future generations.
The Olowe of Ise Museum, under the stewardship of the foundation, is expected to serve as a sanctuary for preserving Nigeria’s cultural treasures. The Board of Trustees, with their collective wisdom, will lead efforts to showcase the rich tapestry of Ekiti State’s history, foster cultural tourism, and bridge the past with the present for a prosperous future.
The initiative has received praise from the Olowe family, with Olajide Ologbon expressing gratitude for the government’s efforts in recovering and preserving his grandfather’s artwork. The museum project is seen as a beacon of hope for cultural heritage, providing inspiration for locals and visitors to appreciate and celebrate Nigeria’s immense beauty and significance.
