A solo presentation of hand-painted sculptures and works on canvas by Yinka Shonibare MBE is presented by Stephen Friedman Gallery in the grade Grade II* listed Fitzrovia Chapel, London.
In the central nave stand three unique sculptures in which Shonibare reinterprets masterpieces of Greek and Roman antiquity. In each work, Shonibare's figures are transformed with the artist's uniquely designed signature Dutch wax batik patterns that are painted directly onto the surface. Each bears a bespoke handmade globe as its head that depicts a contemporary map, alluding to a form of universal identity. Reimagining these classical myths for the present day, Shonibare retains the dramatic impact of the original statues. By situating Shonibare’s works within this magnificent space, the artist’s signature patterns and seductive colours interrupt Western religious iconography and the canons of classical and Renaissance art.