British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare’s work reflects on the dynamic discourse of post-colonialism, mining the turbulent history of immigration throughout the past three centuries. The result is a seemingly playful, fictional world which belies the more earnest concerns addressed by the work.
Alien Toy Painting, a 19 metre-long installation is made up of 75 circular panels, which ‘float’ against a black galactic background. Each ‘planet’ is orbited by a variety of childhood figurines – lego men, Star Wars heroes, and alien eggs. Two flying machines assail the viewer, rupturing the space, suggesting either the beginning or end of an invasion – giving form to fears of alien occupation.
Anna Schwartz Gallery
Until August 16, 2012
Sydney
Flying Machine Recumbent, 2012
Courtesy the artist, Anna Schwartz Gallery and Stephen Friedman Gallery
