Yinka Shonibare MBE was born in London and moved to Lagos, Nigeria at the age of three. He returned to London to study Fine Art, graduating as part of the âYoung British Artistsâ generation. Over the past decade, Shonibare has become well known for his exploration of colonialism and post-colonialism within the contemporary context of globalisation. His expertly-crafted work explores these issues, alongside those of race, class and cultural identity, through painting, sculpture, photography, film and performance.
A Turner prize nominee in 2004, he was awarded an MBE in the same year, adopting the title into his working name. In 2013 he was elected RA by the Royal Academy of Arts.
He has exhibited internationally at leading museums worldwide. Recent solo shows have included âPOP!â at Stephen Friedman Gallery, London (2013), âFABRICA-ATIONâ at Yorkshire Sculpture Park (2013), and âMAGIC LADDERSâ, The Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia (2014).