THE AMERICAN LIBRARY COLLECTION (ACTIVISTS) 2018

Yinka Shonibare's 2018 artwork, *THE AMERICAN LIBRARY COLLECTION (ACTIVISTS)*, is a visually striking installation that features a bookshelf filled with books whose covers are adorned with vibrant, patterned fabrics. The use of African wax-print fabrics is a signature element of Shonibare's practice, and here they function as a powerful symbol of cultural identity and the complexities of colonialism. The titles on the spines of the books are the names of prominent activists, highlighting the important role of activism in shaping social change and highlighting the diversity and impact of the global activist community. Shonibare's work often explores issues of race, identity, and globalization, making it a thought-provoking commentary on the enduring legacy of colonialism and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.