GIRL BALANCING KNOWLEDGE III 2017

"GIRL BALANCING KNOWLEDGE III" (2017) by Yinka Shonibare is a striking mixed-media sculpture of a figure balancing precariously on one leg, while simultaneously supporting a towering stack of books. The figure is clothed in a vibrant, patterned fabric, a hallmark of Shonibare's work, referencing his exploration of colonial history and cultural identity. This sculpture, with its precarious balancing act, symbolizes the complexities of knowledge and learning, especially within the context of diverse cultural perspectives. The use of books, a traditional symbol of knowledge, alongside the vibrant and patterned textiles, creates a powerful visual juxtaposition, prompting viewers to consider the intersection of tradition, modernity, and cultural exchange.