“HOW TO BLOW UP TWO HEADS AT ONCE” is a contemporary sculpture created by artist Yinka Shonibare in 2006. The artwork exemplifies Shonibare’s distinctive style, combining intricate craftsmanship with thought-provoking themes.
The sculpture features two headless mannequins dressed in elaborate period costumes, with each figure raising a rifle towards the headless neck of the other. The intricate dresses are adorned with vibrant, colorful fabrics, reflecting traditional African textiles. This contrasting use of historical European dress styles with African fabric underscores themes of colonialism and the interconnectedness of cultures. The absence of heads on both figures adds an element of anonymity and universality, serving as a commentary on identity and power dynamics. The placement of the figures in dynamic poses and the vibrant, eye-catching colors make the artwork visually striking and conceptually layered.
