The artwork titled “WILLY LOMAN. THE RISE AND FALL (PARADISE)” was created in 2009 by the contemporary and postcolonial artist Yinka Shonibare. Employing photography as the medium, this piece falls within the genre of photo art.
The composition of the artwork presents a dramatic and theatrical scene set in what appears to be an industrial or commercial space, evident from the ceiling lights and the red exit door in the background. The floor is clouded with smoke, creating a surreal ambiance. Central in the scene is a man kneeling, dressed in period attire, facing four women who are also in historical costumes complete with wigs and elaborate dresses. A fifth figure, standing in the background, gazes at the scene, further contributing to the narrative complexity. This juxtaposition of historical dress against a modern setting is characteristic of Shonibare’s work, reflecting themes of postcolonialism, identity, and societal roles.
