Yinka Shonibare, „Planets in My Head, Young Geologist” (2019)

Yinka Shonibare CBE's Planets in My Head, Young Geologist is one of his most important works, part of the Planets in My Head series, begun in 2008. Inspired by the Age of Enlightenment, this series revisits its legacy, revealing the darker sides of an era considered the "Age of Reason." In this work, Shonibare fuses Victorian aesthetics with elements of African culture, introducing a multifaceted dialogue about postcolonialism, globalization, and identity.

The work depicts a fiberglass mannequin dressed in a Victorian outfit made of Dutch batik—a fabric associated with Africa, but produced in Europe and with Asian roots. The mannequin's head is replaced by a globe with a star map and the names of famous geologists, such as Maria Wilman, a pioneering geological scientist from South Africa. In one hand, the figure holds a theodolite—an antique surveying tool. Brass elements and a steel base complete the piece. The work was created for an exhibition in the Astronomer Royal apartments at Flamsteed House, part of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich.

By incorporating batik into a garment symbolizing high social status, Shonibare deliberately highlights the global and historical tensions surrounding cultural identity. The fabric, stereotypically associated with Africa, reveals a complex, multicultural history, provoking reflection on the origins and meaning of cultural artifacts. As collectibles, the globe and theodolite allude to global scientific aspirations while simultaneously highlighting perceptions of knowledge and power.

Born in London in 1962 and raised in Nigeria, Shonibare is known for his bold commentary on issues of race, class, and identity. His work, exhibited in some of the world's most prestigious museums, including MoMA, the Tate, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, bridges high art with popular culture. His multimedia practice explores themes of colonialism, migration, education, and ecology, redefining contemporary understandings of identity in a globalized world.

The work Planets in My Head, Young Geologist symbolizes both the fragility and curiosity of a young person in the face of imposed stereotypes. This work is a significant contribution to artistic discourse, exploring the multifaceted connections between history, culture, and science. Its acquisition also enriches the collection with a distinctive work that addresses the subject of identity in an innovative and deeply reflective way.