Yinka Shonibare, Aristocrat in Blue

This image of the female ‘Aristocrat’ is based on a series which playfully tries to deconstruct icons of ‘Western Power’ by de-westernising them through masking their faces with African masks. I like to play with the idea of parodying excessive lifestyles, such as those who lived privileged lives in the 18th century – in particular the opulence of the Ancient Regime in France. These lifestyles were enabled by colonisation and the slave trade, and by making visual connections between the origins of their wealth, I like to explore the power relations between both worlds. I have drawn Dogon-style animal masks from Mali, West Africa, to cover the faces of the aristocrats and incorporated actual ‘Dutch wax’ batik pattern to create a 21st-century cultural hybrid. – Yinka Shonibare CBE, The Hepworth Wakefield, UK

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, Aristocrat in Blue