Water Pathways / los caminos del agua: Juana Valdés

The intricate installation at the intersection of my artistic exploration unfolds across three distinct bodies of work, each carefully interwoven to delve into the profound tapestry of the China Trade, the evolution of globalization, and the expansive world markets catalyzed by eighteenth-century commerce orchestrated by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the British East India Company. These historical trade routes spanned continents, linking China, Japan, Africa, and the burgeoning colonies in the Americas, forging connections that continue to reverberate across time.

The essence of this creative endeavor is rooted in a meticulous examination of the colonial legacy embedded in the dynamics of trade, a legacy that persists palpably in the artifacts of daily life, from housewares to decorative objects, and in the ubiquitous chinaware that adorns our contemporary existence. The visual narrative unfolds through a multifaceted approach, incorporating photography, works on fabric, and cyanotype prints to encapsulate the complex layers of history and the enduring impact of colonial trade on the material culture of today.

Through the lens of photography, the installation captures moments frozen in time, revealing the echoes of centuries-old commerce imprinted on landscapes, faces, and the artifacts of trade. The use of fabric as a canvas serves as a metaphorical tapestry, weaving together narratives of cultural exchange, exploitation, and the resilience of indigenous voices. The cyanotype prints, with their ethereal blue hues, evoke a sense of nostalgia and timelessness, mirroring the enduring legacy of the China Trade in the collective consciousness.

As observers engage with the installation, they are invited to contemplate the intricate threads connecting past and present, recognizing the continued resonance of colonial dynamics in the seemingly mundane objects that populate our daily lives. The artifacts showcased within the installation act as vessels of history, carrying with them the stories of diverse cultures, economic imbalances, and the indomitable spirit of those who navigated the complexities of global trade.

This body of work serves as a visual montage that synchronizes historical research, artistic expression, and socio-cultural commentary. It invites viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of our world, urging a deeper understanding of the persistent legacy of colonial trade and its enduring impact on contemporary life.

Hours
Open at all times

Location
Skolnick Surgical Tower
Mount Sinai Medical Center
4300 Alton Road
Miami Beach, FL 33140

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