- MediumMixed media
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- DescriptionInstallation view of Yinka Shonibare's commission for the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square, London. The latest Fourth Plinth commission 'Nelson's Ship in a Bottle' by Anglo-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare was unveiled in Trafalgar Square on Monday, 24 May 2010, on the eve of Africa Unity Day. Commissioned by the Mayor of London and supported by Arts Council England, Guaranty Trust Bank of Nigeria and the Henry Moore Foundation, Nelson's Ship in a Bottle is the first Fourth Plinth commission by a black British artist. The work, which is a scale replica of the HMS Victory with African-inspired batik sails, explores the legacy of British colonialism and its expansion in trade and Empire - made possible by Nelson's victory in the Battle of Trafalgar. Yinka Shonibare said: 'London is such a diverse community, and art is a fantastic way to engage everyone regardless of race, class or gender. It is particularly great that this piece is an expression of Nelson's legacy, a legacy which has contributed to the diversity of this city.' Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, said: 'The Fourth Plinth is about enigma and this will be a national conversation piece - people will ask what it says, is it pro-empire, is it anti-empire? This colourful and quirky take on our seafaring heritage provides a vivid contrast that intensifies the historic surroundings of Trafalgar Square. As with the times, it's a vibrant coalition bringing together the traditional and the contemporary, showing London to be creative and forward looking.'
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Yinka Shonibare MBE
Nelson's Ship in a Bottle
