Introduction

This retrospective presents four decades of wood sculpture—the artistic legacy of Lamidi Fakeye, a fifth generation member of the celebrated Fakeye woodcarving family of Ila Orangun, Nigeria.

“I am a compilation of all my teachers and years of study,” explains Lamidi, “from my childhood with family woodcarvers, to the apprenticeship with master George Bamidele Arowoogun, to my travels and study around the world.” Lamidi’s sculptures commemorate Yoruba culture; they are not intended for religious use.