He is considered by Western art historians and collectors to be one of the most important artists of his time.
He was a wood sculptor and master innovator in the African style of design known as oju-ona Olowe, originally Olowere, was born in Efon-Alaiye, a town known as a major cultural centre in Yorùbáland, but he lived most of his life in the city of Ise. He was initially employed as a messenger at the court of King Arinjale, the Ọba of Ise.
It is a matter of dispute whether his artistic career began as an apprenticeship or arose purely from his own natural talent.
His fame as a sculptor appears to have begun at Ise under the patronage of Arinjale before spreading throughout Eastern Yorùbáland.
Olowe was summoned to Ilesa, Ikere, Akure, Idanre, Ogbagi and other towns located within a 60-mile radius (96.75 kilometers) to create elaborate household (such as doors and veranda posts), personal and ritual objects for wealthy families.
Olowe’s highly original and unique style results from the variety of elements and details that he has made his own and that can be found in many of his published works. His remarkable ability to free the figures from the dense hardwood is unlike any other Yoruba carver.
1924, Olowe’s art was exhibited overseas for the first time when a door and lintel ensemble from the royal palace at Ikere was selected for the Nigerian Pavilion at the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley, London. This work of art was subsequently acquired by the British Museum.
Peoplesmind
Credit : Wikipedia, Smithsonian, Khan academy.