Susanne Wenger, also known as Adunni Olorisha, was an Austrian–Nigerian artist. Her art included colored pencil drawings and enigmatic images. Wenger’s art style is a blend of tradition, spirituality, and innovation, from Austrian and Nigerian backgrounds.
Wenger was born in Graz, Austria, in 1915. Her journey began with art training in her native city and continued in Vienna from 1933 to 1935. Wenger attended the School of Applied Arts in Graz, specializing in pottery. She later proceeded to the Higher Graphical Federal Education and Research Institute and the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna. Her studies included fresco techniques and drawing improvement.
In 1947, Wenger co-founded the Vienna Art Club, where she experimented with spirituality-inspired works.
In 1949, Wenger moved to Nigeria with her husband, Linguist Ulli Beier. They settled in the village of Ede, in Osun state, Nigeria, where she embraced the local arts and crafts. Wenger’s focus shifted to Yoruba culture, she embodied the spirituality of the Yorubas, leading her to become a Yoruba priestess, which earned her the title Adunni Olorisha.
She partnered with local artists in Osogbo to redevelop the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, creating sculptures and carvings depicting Orishas’ activities. Her efforts led to the grove’s recognition as a national monument and later a world heritage site.
Wenger’s dedication to preserving the Osun Grove remains unparalleled. Her artistic accomplishments significantly contributed to modern Nigerian art and bridged cultures, leaving a lasting impact on both Austria and Nigeria.
She eventually died in Oshogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, in 2009.
Artist Image: Courtesy The Susanne Wenger Foundation