Manila Galleon Trade: Past describes Present > El Conquistadork

El Conquistadork
El Conquistadork
Manila Folders, Manila rope, wood frame, and mixed media
5' x 10' x 10' (ship only)
2004

A Manila galleon made primarily of Manila file folders was successfully sailed by the artist in Tomales Bay, California to commemorate the famed trade route of 1565 through 1815 between Mexico City, Manila, and California. Based on one of the first intercontinental trade routes, the performance and installation is a humorous critique on contemporary and historic issues of colonialism and cultural exchange.

Photo: MCASD, Pablo Mason