The artwork titled “DISCOBOLUS (AFTER NAUKYDES)” was created by Yinka Shonibare in 2017. This sculpture belongs to the Contemporary and Postcolonial art movements.
The artwork depicts a stylized human figure, standing erect on a pedestal. The figure is adorned in a vibrant, patterned bodysuit featuring bold hues of orange and blue. The head of the figure is substituted with a globe, adding a symbolic and thought-provoking element. Often, Shonibare’s works incorporate themes of colonialism and cultural identity, reflected here through the use of global iconography and traditional African fabric patterns. The overall presentation combines classical form with contemporary content, inviting viewers to contemplate the intersections of history, identity, and aesthetics.
