IWALEWAHAUS BOOK CLUB: in conversation with CBCIU

On Wednesday, 13 January, 2021, the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding played host to our partner institution, Iwalewahaus, University of Bayreuth, in its discussion on Susanne Wenger's 1977 classic, "The Timeless Mind of the Sacred: Its New Manifestation in the Osun Groove."

A cross section of some of the participants at the Zoom talk between Iwalewahaus and the CBCIU.

Appropriately Iwalewahaus Book club II. In conversation with CBCIU, the public gathering brought together staff and friends associated with both institutions to discuss the content, style and relevance of Susanne Wenger's book.

Given the disruptions caused by COVID-19, the event held via ZOOM was moderated by Dr Katharina Fink, editor, curator and writer based at Iwalewahaus and also the founder of Iwalewa Books, while Lena Naumann of the same institution introduced the subject, Susanne Wenger, to all participants. Strictly limited to a conversation, the Executive Director of the CBCIU, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, responded in great details as to the rich manifestation of what Wenger embodied in her lifetime, particularly as it relates to the Osun Groove. Conversations were also spurred around youth participation in cultural activities and the role of the CBCIU in developing interests in the youth towards the local culture.

Being strictly limited to a conversation, the Executive Director of the CBCIU, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso responded in great details as to the rich manifestation of what Wenger embodied in her lifetime, particularly as it relates to the Osun groove conversations were also spurred around youth participation in cultural activities and the role of the CBCIU in developing interests in the youth towards the local culture.

The event was thought-provoking and stimulated the idea of a weekly conversation on the areas of common interest between the two institutions. On the side of the CBCIU, participants include Mr. Olufemi Gbeola, Raheem Oluwafunminiyi, Yusuf Sikiru, Akangbe Babatunde, Taiwo Dosu, and Omotoso Oluwadamilare. It was also a pleasure to connect with Director of Iwalewahaus, Dr. Ulf Vierke, after visiting the CBCIU months before the global lockdown in 2020, Felicia Nitsche, Temidayo Oyeniran and host of others.

The presence, participation and robust intervention of Robin Campbell of the Susanne Wenger Adunni Olorisha Trust was not only soothing but a testament of her active work to preserve Susanne Wenger's memory. Readings from the Timeless Manifestation holds next Wednesday. .