Stephen Friedman Gallery’s exciting inauguration of its new London location will be marked by a captivating exhibition featuring the works of Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, a renowned British-Nigerian artist. Titled ‘Free The Wind, The Spirit, and The Sun,’ this exhibition not only showcases Shonibare’s distinctive artistry but also marks the gallery’s debut on Cork Street in Mayfair. Shonibare, who has been associated with the gallery since 1996, holds the distinction of being one of its longest-represented artists.
The exhibition holds a special significance, as it brings together a diverse group of African artists and those from the African diaspora. Yinka Shonibare, in his role as curator, has meticulously curated this group presentation. Several of these artists had the privilege of participating in Shonibare’s residency program at the Guest Artists Space Foundation in Lagos, Nigeria. A captivating array of artworks, spanning paintings, sculptures, mixed media pieces, and works on paper, will be showcased.
Shonibare’s vision for the exhibition can be described as a “celebration of nature.” The first two rooms of the exhibition will immerse visitors in a vibrant display of sculptures, masks, and quilts. Drawing inspiration from the dada spirit, which emerged during the tumultuous times of the First World War, Shonibare’s work challenges established norms and values in art. The movement, pioneered by Hugo Ball and Emmy Hennings at Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich, aimed to subvert traditional Western artistic conventions, invoking elements from African and Oceanic cultures. The dada artists of that era often employed trance-like performances that resonated with primal instincts, reflecting animalism, originality, and freedom.
The upcoming exhibition promises to be a vibrant and thought-provoking exploration of art and culture. By blending the spirit of Dada with the diverse voices of African artists, Yinka Shonibare and the Stephen Friedman Gallery are poised to create an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. ‘Free The Wind, The Spirit, and The Sun’ will grace the Stephen Friedman Gallery on Cork Street from October 6th to November 11th, 2023. This promises to be an unmissable event that celebrates the convergence of creativity and cultural exploration.
