Elizabeth Olowu

Princess Elizabeth Olowu (born 1939) is a Nigerian sculptor and the daughter of Oba Akenzua II, who was a leader of the Edo people in what is now Benin City, Nigeria. Her Father was the paramount ruler of Benin kingdom and he is known as the King (Oba) Akenzua II, As a child, Olowu worked alongside her mother, learning to she sculpt items related to palace life and ritualistic needs. Her father encouraged her education and interest in sculpting despite local superstitions discouraging women from entering bronze foundries. Olowu attended Holy Child College, where she developed a love for reading. She continued her education at the Federal Emergency Science School where she majored in botany, chemistry, and zoology, which she later taught at the Anglican girls' grammar school. At age 18 she married her high school friend, Babatunde Olowu, and had her first child in 1964. In 1966 she continued her education by enrolling in the University of Nigeria, however she was persuaded to leave the school after finishing her first year. Quotes Art was part of the life of the people, through singing, dancing. "Nigerian artists keep sculpture in the family". Retrieved 21 March 2025. Nudity wasn’t an issue in the kingdom. Princes and princesses were traditionally swathed in a simple white cloth, often bare-chested, wearing long coral necklaces. "Nigerian artists keep sculpture in the family". Retrieved 21 March 2025. It was easier for me, my mother already paved the way for females to be bronze casters. "Nigerian artists keep sculpture in the family". Retrieved 21 March 2025. Quotes About her Olowu describes herself as a feminist. She gave birth to eight children but always kept working, even when she was pregnant. "Nigerian artists keep sculpture in the family". Retrieved 21 March 2025. External Links Category:Women from Nigeria Category:Artists from Nigeria Category:1939 births Category:Sculptors from Nigeria