Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has inaugurated a 13-member Board of Trustees of Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation 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.
The foundation would also drive the state’s initiative to build a modern museum to promote tourism. The museum would house the works of the world-renowned carver, the late Olowe of Ise.
Prominent names on the board include Engr. Yemisi Shyllon, proprietor of Shyllon Museum, the biggest private museum in Africa; Chief (Mrs.) Nike Okundaye of Nike Arts Gallery; Renowned Artist and Curator Prince Tunde Odunlade; Ms. Abiola Adelana; Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi; and Senator Babafemi Ojudu, who is chairman of the BOT.
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; Mr Ologbon Olowe; Dr Mike Adeoye; and Architect Olayinka.
The works of the late Olowe of Ise, who died in 1934, dot several major museums in America and Europe.
Governor Oyebanji, while inaugurating the 13-member Board of Trustees at the EXCO Chamber, Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti, said the establishment of the Olowe Arts Foundation was not just an act of preservation of cultural heritage but a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the heritage, celebrating artistic contribution, and presenting an enduring legacy for future generations.
The governor announced last December that his administration would build a world-class museum in Ise Ekiti to preserve the legacies of the internationally renowned carver, popularly known as Olowe of Ise Ekiti. The museum would house his works, which are now in major museums in America and Europe.
The Governor maintained that the Olowe of Ise Museum, under the stewardship of the foundation, would serve as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural significance of the world-renowned carver and a true custodian of Yoruba artistic excellence, honouring the unparalleled legacy of Nigerian and the world’s most distinguished artist, Olowe of Ise.
Governor Oyebanji explained that Olowe’s carvings were a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence of the state and the country, hence the importance of ensuring his contribution to nation-building was adequately acknowledged and celebrated.
Expressing his confidence in the Trustees’ competence, dedication, and unwavering commitment, the Governor said their foresight and passion for cultural heritage will lay the foundation for sustaining success and global recognition.
He said: “The Olowe of Ise Museum, under the stewardship of the foundation, is poised to serve as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship, 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 for 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.”
In his opening remarks, the Director General of the Bureau of Tourism Development, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, said the inauguration of the BOT shows the Biodun Oyebanji administration’s commitment to honouring the remarkable legacy of Olowe of Ise. Olowe was an outstanding sculptor whose artistic brilliance has left an indelible mark on the world’s cultural landscape.
He maintained that the event’s significance extends beyond arts and culture. It is pivotal in advancing the state by fostering economic growth, cross-cultural exchanges, and enhancing the community’s overall well-being.
Responding on behalf of members of the trustees, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, said the BOT would work assiduously to ensure that Olowe’s Museum is successful and becomes a conduit of cultural exchange with global communities.
While thanking the governor for allowing them to serve the good people of Ekiti State, Senator Ojudu said members of the board would embrace roles with dedication and a sense of responsibility by fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation, and diversity to ensure that the museum becomes a centre of artistic dialogue and cultural enrichment.
The Arinjale of Ise-Ekiti, HRM Oba Ayodele Ajayi, said the event was a dream come true, adding 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 the decision to cite the museum in the town.
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, the Arinjale of Ise Ekiti, HRM Oba Ayodele Ajayi and chiefs and representatives of Ewi-in-Council.
