The artwork entitled “David (After Michelangelo)” by Yinka Shonibare, created in 2016, belongs to the genres of Contemporary and Postcolonial art. This sculpture is a reinterpretation of Michelangelo’s iconic statue of David, merging classical aesthetics with contemporary themes.
The sculpture presents a headless figure, clothed in a vibrant, richly patterned fabric that appears to be inspired by African prints. Instead of a head, a globe is placed on top of the figure’s neck, symbolizing globalism and possibly the interconnectedness of cultures. The stance and anatomy of the figure closely echo the original David, yet the unique adjustments in materials and design elements introduce a narrative on identity, culture, and postcolonial discourse. The positioning of the figure and use of modern textiles juxtaposed against the classical form create a striking visual dialogue between past and present artistic practices.
