Virtual tour of Yinka Shonibare’s ‘Sanctuary City’

Join the Rose Art Museum for a virtual exploration of “Yinka Shonibare: Sanctuary,” the U.S. debut of the British-Nigerian artist’s powerful and immersive installation “Sanctuary City” (2024). The installation consists of eighteen scaled-down replicas of historical and contemporary buildings from across the globe that have served as places of refuge for persecuted and vulnerable groups and individuals. Dr. Gannit Ankori, Rose Director and Chief Curator, in conversation with Pauline Forlenza, Director and CEO of the American Federation of Arts, will offer detailed analyses of the installation and explore its symbolic components. Ankori and Forlenza will also discuss how the artwork challenges us to confront our responsibilities to one another and to recognize every person’s basic need for shelter and a safe haven. While pointing to global history, Shonibare’s installation makes an urgent call for action today and into the future.

This free virtual tour requires registration. The physical installation will remain on display at the Rose through January 3, 2027. The Rose Art Museum is open Wednesday–Sunday; 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission is free, but a ticketed reservation is recommended to guarantee entry.