Look out for an amazing new “Flags of the world” display, which will take pride of place in the main entrance of the school. Inspired by the work of artist Yinka Shoniba who was commissioned to create the magnificent “Nelson’s Ship in a bottle”, which can be seen at The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich.
Nelson’s HMS Victory in a bottle created by Yinka is one of the most photographed artworks in London. Nelson’s Ship in a Bottle has 80 cannon and 37 sails set as on the day of battle. The richly patterned sails were inspired by Indonesian batik, mass-produced by Dutch traders and sold in West Africa. Today these designs are associated with African dress and identity.
The characteristic bright colours and abstract symmetries of Dutch Wax fabric have accrued many complex, often ambivalent associations – with colonialism, industrialisation, emigration, cultural appropriation, and the invention (and reinvention) of tradition – all of which are foregrounded in Shonibare’s work.
Our display will house flags created by our children signifying the many countries and cultures that come together to create a multi-cultural, diverse school community. We have taken a few pictures of some of the flags created so far by our talented children, which can be seen in the gallery below. More information will come when we get closer to the launch of this magnificent new piece.
If you would like to find out more about Yinka, please take some time to watch the video above. If you have a moment, why not take a trip to the National Maritime Museum and take your selfie with the fabulous ship.