The artwork titled “BUTTERFLY KID (BOY) II” was created by the artist Yinka Shonibare in 2015. As a piece from the contemporary art movement, this sculpture exemplifies Shonibare’s distinctive approach and thematic explorations.
The artwork depicts a boy adorned with intricately detailed butterfly wings. His body is clothed in vibrant, patterned fabrics characteristic of Shonibare’s style, blending traditional African textiles with Western fashions. The boy’s face is obscured and replaced with a dark, reflective globe, suggesting themes of identity, globalization, and cultural hybridity. His dynamic pose, with one leg raised as if walking, conveys a sense of movement and forward momentum. The sculpture’s intricate detail and striking visual elements invite viewers to engage with complex themes of cultural identity and post-colonial geopolitical narratives.
