Susanne Wenger’s House: New Sacred Art at the main entrance

The photo shows an array of works of New Sacred Art located on the front entrance of Susanne Wenger’s House in Òṣogbo.

The two spectacular wooden statues depicting Yorùbá deities are by Rabiu Abesu. A master woodcarver, Abesu is one of the few artists of the New Sacred Art Movement who comes from a long lineage of woodcarvers known as gbẹ́nagbẹ́na, who created objects for traditional Yorùbá ritual purposes. The family profession is passed down from father to son. Quickly identified as an artist of exceptional talent, Abesu got encouragement from Susanne Wenger to continue his traditional craft but to create his own mode of expression. His works feature prominently in the Osun Osogbo Shrines, many of which are adorned by his complex wooden pillars.

The giant stone sculpture and the carved window shutters were created by Buraimoh Gbadamosi (1925- 2014).
Gbadamosi was one of Susanne Wenger’s closest friends, artistic collaborator and “soul mate”. He was also her next door neighbour. He is best known for his magnificent stone sculptures with large bulging eyes, as shown in this photo. They are displayed throughout the Sacred Groves as well as in- and outside of Wenger’s house.

The elaborate and joyful images sculpted in cement on the wall exterior were created by Adebisi Akanji, a master artist and Wenger's co-builder of most of the large cement sculptures in the Sacred Groves. Originally a bricklayer by profession, Adebisi was trained to build cement decorations in the elaborate 'Brazilian' baroque building style, derived from buildings introduced to West Africa in the late 19th century by freed slaves, or returnees. Indeed, Akanji is credited with introducing Susanne Wenger to the technique of sculpting in cement.

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 - and an impressive view over the roofs of the town from her drawing table.

The Adunni Olorisha Trust is the custodian of the Susanne Wenger House and its contents and raises funds to pay the rent and finance repairs.