Met Documentary Explores Ọṣun-Òṣogbo Sacred Grove's Art Revival

A brief documentary focusing on the Ọṣun-Òṣogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Nigeria, has been unveiled by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Covering an area of 190 acres, this grove honors Ọ̀ṣun, the Yorùbá goddess associated with rivers and fertility. The mid-20th century saw the New Sacred Art Movement enhance the area with impressive sculptures. Directed by Sosena Solomon, this film is part of The Met's initiative on Africa's cultural heritage, created in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund. Featured artists include Kasali Akangbe Ogun, who, alongside Susanne Wenger and Chief Adebisi Akanji, played a pivotal role in the 1960s movement. Ogun continues to create totemic shrines and share his skills. The grove is known for its annual festival and pilgrimages, with Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye referring to it as a living narrative. The Met has explored 13 cultural sites throughout Africa.