The Ghost of Liberty
2004
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Over twenty-five years ago, Chagoya adopted the format of the Mesoamerican codex as a vehicle to explore contemporary history. He made this print in the years following 9/11, when Americans questioned President George W. Bush’s decision to invade Iraq. Chagoya’s codex, which reads from right to left and is made of amate paper like the historic forms that inspired it, mixes incongruous visual references from the Lone Ranger and Tonto to plumed serpents, dinosaurs, Arabic and Chinese text, flying saucers, and much more. His narrative is open to interpretation, but his title suggesting the eclipse of liberty and his appropriation of Hollywood racial stereotypes offers enough fodder to spark debate.
enrique chagoya (1953 –)
Enrique Chagoya is a Mexican-born American painter & printmaker known for his satirical codices exploring cultural change, political activism, immigration, and identity. His work blends Mesoamerican imagery with pop culture to challenge dominant narr
Smithsonian American Art Museum (Washington, D.C., United States of America)
Discover American art's rich history at the Smithsonian American Art Museum! Explore iconic works, diverse traditions & captivating exhibitions within the Old Patent Office Building.
About this artwork
- Title: The Ghost of Liberty
- Artist: enrique chagoya
- Year: 2004
- Format: Panoramic
- Copyright status: Under copyright
- Where to see it: Smithsonian American Art Museum
- Main color: White
- Perceived brightness: brilliant
QR Code
