“BUTTERFLY KID (BOY) III,” created in 2018 by artist Yinka Shonibare, is a sculpture situated within the contemporary art movement. The artwork presents a multifaceted and imaginative approach, characteristic of Shonibare’s thematic explorations.
The artwork depicts a figure of a boy adorned in an eclectic, vibrant outfit composed of intricate patterns and vivid colors. The figure sports butterfly wings, indicating a fusion of human and insect elements, indicative of Shonibare’s penchant for blending various cultural and natural motifs. The boy is attired in a multi-colored jacket and shorts, complemented by purple socks and brown boots. His head is replaced with a smooth, dark globe, adding a surreal quality to the ensemble. The poised stance and the outward stretch of the arms convey a sense of balance and motion, enhancing the dynamic essence of the sculpture. This thoughtful composition invites viewers to ponder notions of identity, transformation, and hybridity.
