Yinka Shonibare CBE RA: Free The Wind, The Spirit, and The Sun

Colourful exhibition at the Stephen Friedman of new work by Yinka Shonibare.

This show included some of Shonibare's signature sculptures featuring brightly coloured waxed Ankara fabric. I particularly liked this life-sized horse and rider which comments on colonialism but also remined me of Papageno in The Magic Flute. Complementing this statue were some large applique quilts featuring large, colourful, endangered birds.

Alongside Shonibare's work was a group presentation of work by African artists and the African diaspora curated by the artist some of whom had participated  in a residency programme he runs in Lagos. This work seemed duller in comparison but it set up an interesting dialogue.

Closed 11 November 2023


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