Yinka Shonibare, Dreamscape

British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare is known for exploring cultural identity, race and the legacy of colonialism using diverse artistic media. His studio describes Shonibare’s work as follows:

His interdisciplinary practice uses citations of Western art history and literature to question the validity of contemporary cultural and national identities within the context of globalisation. Through examining race, class and the construction of cultural identity, his works comment on the tangled interrelationship between Africa and Europe, and their respective economic and political histories. – Yinka Shonibare

Yinka Shonibare, a British-Nigerian artist, is widely recognized for his multifaceted approach to art, engaging with painting, sculpture, photography, film, printmaking and installation. However, he is particularly celebrated for his use of batik fabric in elaborate costumed dioramas. Through his artwork, Shonibare explores and challenges perceptions of cultural identity, colonialism, and authenticity. The batik fabric, central to his work, has complex origins: initially inspired by Indonesian designs, it was mass-produced by the Dutch and introduced into West African colonies. By the 1960s, this fabric had been embraced as a symbol of African identity and independence, despite its colonial ties. Shonibare’s works often involve intricate collages and detailed figurative compositions, employing this “African” cloth to construct narratives that blur the boundaries of geography and history. His artwork raises poignant questions about the interplay between culture and nationalism in the post-colonial context. Given his physical disability, which paralyzes one side of his body, Yinka Shonibare relies on a team of assistants to execute his artistic vision, making his studio practice a collaborative effort. This dynamic adds another layer to his exploration of identity and authorship within his artworks. His limited edition prints further extend these themes, making Shonibare’s richly layered narratives and vibrant aesthetics accessible to a broader audience. Each piece, whether it’s a painting, print, or collage, reflects his unique perspective and serves as a medium for cultural critique. He has exhibited at the Venice Biennale, documenta and at leading museums worldwide. Among his awards are Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE, 2019), Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE, 2005), a fellowship at Goldsmith’s College (2003). His work is included in notable museum collections including Tate (London), the National Museum of African Art, the Smithsonian Institute (Washington D.C.) and the Museum of Modern Art (New York) among others. Yinka Shonibare CBE RA was born in 1962 in London, England and moved to Lagos, Nigeria at the age of three. He lives and works in London.

Yinka Shonibare, Dreamscape