See Yinka Shonibare’s striking print exhibition exploring colonialism, race, and identity, direct from Cristea Roberts Gallery.
The gallery displays large, bright prints. They are screenprints and woodcuts. White frames and black screens make colors pop. Each piece has space to stand out.
The center is open, so works connect. The art tackles important topics. It explores colonialism and its effects. Also, it looks at race, class, and identity. Political and economic histories are present. Relationships between colonizers and colonized matter.
The show is visually striking. You can enjoy its colors and creativity. It uses bold forms and vibrant colors. Fabric collages add African designs, giving a ‘jigsaw quality’ to the work. Videos explain woodblock printing too.
The prints have a poster-like feel. They are bold and physical. Forms seem to leap out. The work questions, not lectures, on issues. Fabric works announce the series at the entrance.
Modernism links to African history here. Shonibare’s life shows this. He was born in London, then lived in Nigeria. He studied art in London, where he lives.
His ship was in Trafalgar Square. It was the first by a black British artist. “Mayflower, All Flowers” is about U.S. emigration. The sails use African fabric. This references the slave trade.
African masks influenced Western artists. Picasso is a prime example. “Modern Magic” uses Picasso’s masks. “Modern Spiritual” uses art objects.
Each “African Bird Magic” work features one large bird. It dominates the composition.
“Cowboy Angel” prints address U.S. culture. Cowboys and stock prices appear. African carvings frame them. “Twins” hints at 1800s emigration to Africa.
This exhibition is a real treat nearby.
