The artwork named “CHEEKY LITTLE ASTRONOMER III,” created by the artist Yinka Shonibare in 2018, is a contemporary sculpture that engages with themes of postcolonial art. Shonibare is renowned for his thought-provoking works that often explore issues of cultural identity, colonial history, and globalization.
In the artwork, a small child’s figure, clad in vibrant, patterned African textiles, sits on a wooden chair, balancing precariously on its back legs. The child’s head is represented by a black globe, emphasizing a cosmic or universal perspective. The figure is depicted in an exuberant pose, holding a telescope pointed towards the sky, suggesting a fascination with the cosmos and a sense of curiosity and wonder. The playful and imaginative stance of the child contrasts with the sophisticated subject matter, blending a youthful exuberance with the profound quest for knowledge. This amalgamation of traditional African fabric with contemporary themes creates a striking commentary on global perspectives and the integration of diverse cultural identities.
