Adebayo Adenrele
…inaugurates Art Foundation’s Board of Trustees
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has described Olowe of Ise Ekiti, 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.
Oyebanji stated this in Ado-Ekiti during the inauguration of Board of Trustees (BoT), Olowe of Ise Art Foundation.
He 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.
Oyebanji said the essence of the museum is to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the land and honouring the unparalleled legacy of the Olowe of Ise.
With the inauguration of the Board of Trustees, the governor said the members are laying the foundation for the noble endeavour with a charge to serve as the guiding force in upholding the mission and vision of the Olowe of Ise Art Foundation.
He exuded confidence in the competence, dedication, of the appointed trustees, noting that their collective expertise, foresight, and passion for cultural heritage will steer the foundation towards sustained success and global recognition.
He added, “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 recognize 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.”
