In the quiet passing of Egbon Yinka Fabayo, Nigeria has lost not just a master of traditional wood carving, but a keeper of cultural memory. Known for his powerful hands, gentle heart, and deep dedication to his craft, Mr. Fabayo was more than an artist. He was a mentor, a friend, and a living bridge between generations of sculptors. This tribute personally written by Nigerian sculptor Dotun Popoola, is a personal reflection by him about one of Africa’s most illustrious sons

This is an ode from a younger artist who had the rare honour of learning, laughing, and dreaming alongside him.

“Nigeria just lost one of the last traditional wood carver and we didn’t know!!!
I often visited Mr Yinka Fabayo in his Oshogbo studio, sometimes to buy one of his beautiful wood sculptures, other times to pick up fabrics from his ever-gracious wife. Each visit was met with his signature welcome: a heavy punch to my shoulder, a squeeze deep handshake, followed by a warm smile and an unforgettable hug.

Whenever he had an engagement in Ile-Ife, he and his wife would make the trip to my house, and we would share the kind of fellowship that is very rare between a senior artist and a mentee.

We had planned to go to the Qatar show together. I had helped him curated all his works, photographed each sculpture with care, full of excitement for what was to come, but life, in its own way, had other plans.

Egbon Fabayo, You didn’t just live a good life, you left a legacy, you made impact, you built community, you made great art, you carved history, and you lived a deeply fulfilling life.

When you get to the other side, extend my greetings to Lamidi Olonade Fakeye, Õlówè of Ise, Areogun, Bisi Fakeye, but find time to rest well, because you really worked!! You worked!!

May God grant you eternal peace. We will miss you.” – Culled from Dotun Popoola’s Facebook page

Photographs and Sculptures courtesy Dotun Popoola