Yinka Shonibare has been announced as one of the key contributors to the Queen Elizabeth II National Memorial in central London. His involvement marks a bold and also thoughtful addition to a landmark that aims to honour the late monarch’s legacy with depth and nuance.

Shonibare will create a Wind Sculpture for the Commonwealth Garden at St. James’s Park, symbolizing Queen Elizabeth’s lasting connection to the Commonwealth. Best known for exploring themes of colonialism, identity, and also hybridity, Shonibare’s contribution adds a contemporary and reflective layer to the commemorative project.
“I’m excited to be part of this commission for a national memorial celebrating the remarkable achievements of the late Queen. As a champion of the Commonwealth and the arts, particularly through her involvement with the Royal Academy, this project feels especially close to my heart. I very much look forward to contributing to this special project which celebrates her extraordinary impact as part of her long-lasting legacy.” Yinka Shonibare commented.
The wider design reimagines the park’s landscape with a new bridge replacing the existing Blue Bridge, inspired by the Queen Mary fringe tiara worn by Elizabeth II at her 1947 wedding. They will install new sculptures of the Queen and Prince Philip near Birdcage Walk, alongside a central monument next to The Mall.
Norman Foster said the memorial subtly revives Sir John Nash’s original vision for St. James’s Park by preserving some of his principles and restoring others, while also weaving together a family of gardens linked by gently meandering paths.
Shonibare’s recent exhibitions include solo shows at Serpentine Galleries (2024), James Cohan Gallery (2023), and Goodman Gallery (2022). His latest, Safiotra [Hybridités/Hybridities], also opened this April in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
The team will unveil the final design in 2026, marking what would have been the Queen’s 100th birthday. They plan to begin construction in 2027.