From Tailor to Outstanding Sculptor: Buraimoh Gbadamosi

Buraimoh was one of Susanne Wenger's oldest friends, her neighbour and as she called him, her soul-mate.

Susanne Wenger first encouraged him by commissioning wooden doors for her house.
To allow him to work for her, she paid for his 'firee', pidgeon English for freedom, from his position as a carpenter’s apprentice.

He soon moved on to carving magnificent poles with bulging eyes which guard the inner sanctum of many shrines in the Sacred Ọ̀ṣun Òṣogbo Groves.

Stone carving became his preferred medium. His stone figures are both powerful and charming.
'When smiling with them, we feel profoundly reassured” (Susanne Wenger)

Buraimoh carved these 'Kiliwi' (a descriptive expression coined by Susanne Wenger) in all shapes and sizes. They are said to represent benevolent earth spirits and are often given the attributes of some of the Yorùbá deities.

This sculpture marks the spot where another gigantic tree used to stand close to the entrance to the main Ọ̀ṣun shrine.

'My mind, heart and soul are the secret of the inspiration to produce my work.'  (Buraimoh Gbadamosi)

Despite their rather heavy weight, Buraimoh Gbadamosi's loveable stone carvings can be found in many private collections all over the world.

Buraimoh and Susanne remained lifelong friends and soul-mates.

Mentored by their father, Buraimoh Gbadamosi’s six sons continue in his footsteps.