Chango (2016)
The “Chango” is a souvenir / conversation piece that references the Puerto Rican bird known as the “chango” (Quiscalus N. Brachypterus). “Chango’s” conceptual discourse is a reflection on the contempt towards these birds and the complicated self-contempt of the Puerto Rican people. The bird shares several behavior traits with the Puerto Rican community, such as its adaptability to diverse environments, its highly social lifestyle, and its constantly active personality. The design turns the bird into a figure that appeals differently to each viewer/user, despite the fact that it represents and symbolizes the infamous bird. Through this transformation, not only does the viewer/user enjoy the object in his or her preferred space or environment, but he or she is also invited to reflect upon the diverse aspects which the bird can relate to, be it in terms of national identity, historical and social adaptation of the Puerto Rican community throughout history, appeal of the memory or experiences with the birds, or other connections. This acceptance of the symbol of the “Chango” in the private sphere of the viewer/user becomes an act of poetic acceptance and understanding of the above-mentioned possible derogatory relationship a viewer/user has with the birds. The “Chango’s” physical features such as color, size, movability, and stylized shape are used to create a realistic look as to emulate the actual bird. (2017)
Maximum Dimensions: 8" x 9" x 6.5"
