Yinka Shonibare, British-Nigerian, born 1962
Refugee Astronaut, 2015
Yinka Shonibare was born in London of Yoruba heritage and grew up in both Nigeria and Britain. The astronaut, along with the range of textiles and materials, is a recurring theme in Shonibare's work. His Refugee Astronaut brings to mind thoughts of humanity’s future while also raising critical questions about present-day issues. Where is the astronaut coming from, where is he going, and why does he seek refuge? On close inspection, the possessions the figure has packed, including a toothbrush, survey equipment, and kitchenware, as well as the materials he adorns, demonstrates globalization, climate change, and our current refugee crisis. Label by Isabel Williams
Yinka Shonibare’s Refugee Astronaut is a prime example of the British-Nigerian artist’s characteristic exploration of identity, post-colonialism, and globalization. Utilizing his trademark Ankara fabric and faceless globe, Shonibare created an astronaut refugee leaning forward into the unknown with the heavy weight of the bit and pieces of his life, which are simultaneously a large burden and not nearly enough to support him wherever he is going. The viewer of the piece may ask “is his helmet protecting him from polluted air and his suit from his toxic surroundings?”, “Will he find somewhere that is still habitable?” Or “Will the clocks on his suit run out of time?” This piece not only acknowledges the position that climate refugees are placed in, but also elements of justice; although space exploration has held the connotation of a white endeavor, Shonibare’s astronauts typically are dressed using fabric similar to traditional Nigerian textiles. Label by Molly McCarthy Flood