While there are local differences in dialect and custom, the Yoruba share a common language and culture and traditionally have been among the most skilled and productive craftsmen in Africa. Fakeye has elevated Yoruban traditional sculpture to a level of excellence appreciated and sought after all over the world. Carving is an inspiration for me. What has come from it are the blessings of God. While at UB, he will demonstrate wood carving, attend a reception for an exhibit of his work and deliver a lecture.
All events are free of charge and open to the public, unless otherwise indicated.
A fellow at Nigeria's Obafemi Awolowo University, Fakeye has taught and exhibited extensively both in Nigeria and abroad. His work appears in the collections of such American institutions as the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts and Northwestern University. The Smithsonian Institution will present an exhibition of his work in December. The Fakeye visit and program was developed and coordinated by Department of Media Study graduate student Christine Black. African American Studies, Anthropology, Art, Art History, Comparative Literature, Media Study, Modern Languages and Literatures, Psychology, History, and the UB Art Gallery.