Mary Sibande

"Inspired by the explorations of race, gender and sexuality in the work of American artists Kara Walker and Cindy Sherman, and London-based Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare, Mary cast her own body in fibreglass and silicone to create Sophie. She then painted her a 'flat black,' so that she stands out like a dark and static shadow … Sophie’s eyes are always closed as if in a 'constant ecstasy of fantasy' and it's in her mind that her dress becomes a thing of voluminous Victorian splendour. 'If she opened her eyes, it would be back to work – cleaning this, dusting that. Her dress would become an ordinary maid’s uniform,' said Mary."

– Elle Decoration ZA



1. From Incorrigible Corrigall
2. From Elle Decoration ZA