Virgil Ortiz: reVOlution

Colorado Fine Arts Center | Ideum

Role: Project Manager

In 2018 I had the opportunity to work with Cochiti Pueblo artist, potter, and fashion designer Virgil Ortiz to create a projection mapped installation as part of his ReVOlution: Rise Against the Invasion exhibition at the Colorado Fine Arts Center in Colorado Springs. The deeply compelling exhibition fused traditional Cochiti art with Ortiz’s futuristic works to tell the story of the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, and takes visitors into the future for the Revolution of 2180. My team worked with Ortiz to bring his story to life with a visual narrative that first took form as an eight-minute immersive showpiece for the exhibit, which tells the fanciful story of next century’s Revolution:

Set in 2180, the Pueblos are in chaos and the invasion of Native land continues as the scourge of war rages everywhere. The Aeronauts summon their fleet and prepare for extreme warfare against the invading Castilian forces. The Aeronauts search for any remaining clay artifacts from the battlefield, knowing the importance of preserving and protecting their clay, culture, language and traditions from extinction.

My team and I took great care to maintain Ortiz’s vision and create an experience that not only provides an immersive and entertaining visit, but also educates visitors on Pueblo history. The exhibit challenges visitors to look at the past, re-examine the traditional historical narrative of Native Americans, and ultimately become excited about their future.

Photos by Miranda Due, Video by Ideum