Yinka Shonibare’s vibrant sculpture commemorates David Oluwale and celebrates Leeds’ cultural diversity
In the heart of Leeds city center, amidst the red-brick buildings and under the watchful gaze of a grey-blue sky, stands a captivating public artwork that has become a symbol of healing and unity. Hibiscus Rising, a 10-meter tall sculpture created by renowned artist Yinka Shonibare, was recently unveiled as part of Leeds’ year of culture, Leeds 2023. The vibrant sculpture, adorned with batik fabric designs inspired by West Africa, pays tribute to David Oluwale, a British-Nigerian man who tragically lost his life due to racial persecution in 1969. While Hibiscus Rising serves as a reminder of a dark moment in the city’s past, it also celebrates Leeds’ rich cultural tapestry, which is home to people from 169 different nationalities.
A Memorial to David Oluwale and a Celebration of Cultural Diversity
David Oluwale’s story is one of tragedy and injustice. Hounded and beaten by racist police officers, he ultimately drowned in the River Aire while trying to escape their persecution. The sculpture was commissioned as a memorial to honor Oluwale’s memory and shed light on the ongoing reckoning with his tragic death. Shonibare, however, wanted the sculpture to focus on healing and moving forward rather than dwelling on the circumstances of Oluwale’s demise. Drawing inspiration from his own Nigerian childhood, Shonibare chose the hibiscus flower as a symbol of beauty, love, empathy, and passion. The sculpture stands as a testament to resilience and unity, reminding the community of the need to heal and come together.
Leeds 2023: A Year of Cultural Celebration
Leeds’ year of culture, Leeds 2023, has been a vibrant and joyous celebration of the city’s arts and cultural scenes. The year-long event was born out of a bid to become the European capital of culture, which was dashed due to Brexit. Despite the setback, Leeds has embraced its cultural richness and diversity, offering residents and visitors a whirlwind of performances, exhibitions, and celebrations. The unveiling of Hibiscus Rising has been a significant highlight, symbolizing the city’s resilience and determination to showcase its artistic spirit.
Overcoming Challenges and Creating a Landmark Sculpture
The creation of Hibiscus Rising was not without its challenges. Funding for the project was a real struggle, and the sculpture faced the risk of cancellation multiple times when support was withdrawn. Dr. Emily Zobel Marshall, co-chair of the David Oluwale Memorial Association, attributes these challenges to a reluctance to confront difficult stories. However, with the support of Leeds City Council, Leeds 2023, Art Fund, Arts Council England, and a grant from the Henry Moore Foundation, Hibiscus Rising was able to come to fruition. Zobel Marshall believes that the sculpture will become a landmark for the city, akin to the Angel of the North.
Yinka Shonibare’s Powerful Artistic Vision
Yinka Shonibare’s selection as the artist behind Hibiscus Rising was no coincidence. Known for his thought-provoking artworks that explore themes of colonialism, Shonibare’s use of batik fabric designs overlaid on traditional European colonial statues has garnered critical acclaim. When Leeds City Council audited its own statues, it was discovered that there were no tributes to figures like Edward Colston, a slave owner whose statue was torn down in Bristol. Instead, the city boasted statues commemorating the glories of empire and the achievements of “great” white men. Hibiscus Rising, with its vibrant colors and powerful symbolism, speaks to people in a way that other sculptures do not, serving as a testament to the city’s commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
Conclusion:
Hibiscus Rising stands as a powerful symbol of healing, unity, and cultural diversity in Leeds. Yinka Shonibare’s vibrant sculpture commemorates the life of David Oluwale, a victim of racial persecution, while celebrating the city’s rich multicultural heritage. As Leeds continues to grow culturally and economically, Hibiscus Rising serves as a reminder of the importance of confronting difficult stories and embracing inclusivity. This landmark sculpture will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the city, becoming a beacon of hope and a testament to resilience for generations to come.
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