Susanne Wenger House: A Showpiece of New Sacred Art

This photo is of a room on the third floor of the magnificent Brazilian style house where Susanne Wenger lived in Òṣogbo from the late 1950s until her death in 2009. Some of the interior walls are painted with abstract motifs traditionally found in the shrines, while the walls of Wenger’s private quarters are covered in her own expressive graffiti-like text, the thoughts and philosophies of the artist written in a mix of German, English and Yoruba.
The residence contains over 400 works of art, mostly works by artists of the New Sacred Art Movement. Wenger also collected a small number of traditional artefacts including masks and ritual objects, as well as a number of works by contemporary Nigerian artists, such as Bruce Onobrakpeya. Wenger collected this art not only to adorn the house but also to encourage the sale of the works, particularly those those by New Sacred Artists.
The house is a beautiful example of the Brazilian style building and is one of the most impressive and best maintained examples of this style of architecture in Òṣogbo.

Susanne Wenger’s adopted daughter, Chief Priestess Adedoyin Faniyi and the extended family still live in the house. As in Wenger’s time, it remains a meeting point for artists and traditionalists.
Visitors are welcome, upon appointment, to come into the house and experience the spirit of Àdùnní Olórìṣà as Susanne Wenger’s living quarters and studio space, which are located on the upper floors, remain untouched as a reminder of how she worked and lived. They offer a unique opportunity to view her extensive art collection as well as an incredible view over the roofs of the town from her drawing table!
On the ground floor there is also a co-operative shop run by the New Sacred Art Movement where art and books can be purchased.
Her adopted son, high priest and artist Sangodare Ajala, who died in October 2021, also had his studio on the ground floor.
The Adunni Olorisha Trust/Osun Foundation is the custodian of the Susanne Wenger House and its contents.