Stephen Friedman Gallery presents Free The Wind, The Spirit, and The Sun, a new exhibition by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare CBE RA at its new London location on Cork Street, Mayfair. Shonibare, a longstanding artist with the gallery since 1996, curates a group presentation of African and diaspora artists, featuring paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and works on paper.

The exhibition, described as a "celebration of nature," draws inspiration from the dada spirit, challenging Western art traditions. Shonibare references aristocratic leisure and Western interpretations of African spirituality, as seen in the life-size sculpture 'Feeling Free Like a Bird,' depicting a woman breaking free from societal restrictions with native African birds.

'Wind Sculpture in Bronze (SG)' captures the movement of wind, reflecting its impact on African textiles and the African diaspora's story. The dada spirit disrupts geographically determined traditions, as seen in Shonibare's 'Hybrid Masks,' zoomorphic masks exploring transformational qualities and spiritual meaning in West African masquerades.

The exhibition extends its exploration of freedom with works by emerging and established artists from the African diaspora, curated by Shonibare. The presentation, featuring artists from Shonibare's Lagos residency program, is part of Guest Artists Space Foundation's dedication to international cultural exchange and creative development. Artists showcased include Bunmi Agusto, Okiki Akinfe, Victor Ehikhamenor, Masimba Hwati, Gareth Nyandoro, Nengi Omuku, Ozioma Onuzulike, Emma Prempeh, and Uzor Ugoala.

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