The artwork titled “Winged Victory of Samothrace,” created by Yinka Shonibare in 2017, belongs to the Contemporary and Postcolonial art movements and is a sculpture.
The artwork reimagines the classical statue of Nike, the ancient Greek goddess of victory. This rendition maintains the iconic pose with outstretched wings and flowing garments, but is distinctively covered in a vibrant, patterned fabric, diverging from the traditional marble. The head is replaced with a globe, symbolizing global cultural fusion. The sculpture stands on a modern pedestal, rooted in historical reference while encapsulating contemporary themes. The texture and color invite viewers to reflect on themes of identity, colonization, and cultural convergence.