Heritage Across Borders: Mexico & Colombia traduce — 3D Virtual Gallery by Gabriela Vega

Artworks in this gallery

• Marimonda Carnival Mask (2026) — History: Created as a humorous way to mock the upper class and express social satire. Origin: Early 20th century. Use: Worn during the Barranquilla Carnival in parades and street dances.
• The Sombrero Vueltiao (2026) — History: Created by the Zenú people as protection from the tropical sun and as a symbol of identity. Origin: Pre-Columbian era (before the 16th century). Use: Traditionally worn in daily life; today used in festivals like the Barranquilla Carnival and cultural events.
• The Alegre Drum (2026) — History: The alegre drum is part of Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean musical tradition. It plays a leading role in rhythms like cumbia and mapalé, guiding the melody with improvised patterns. Origin: Colonial period (influenced by African musical traditions). Use: Used in traditional music and dances, especially during cultural events and the Barranquilla Carnival.
• Mote de Queso Soup (2026) — History: Mote de queso is a traditional dish from Colombia’s Caribbean region, especially popular in Córdoba. It combines indigenous ingredients like yam with Spanish influences such as cheese, creating a rich and creamy soup. Approximate Date of Origin: Colonial period, with roots in pre-Columbian indigenous cuisine. Main Ingredients: Yam (ñame), coastal cheese (queso costeño), onion, garlic, and lemon juice. When It Is Used: It is commonly eaten as a daily meal, but also during family gatherings, cultural events, and traditional celebrations in the Caribbean region.
• Guandú Soup (2026) — History: This soup is a traditional Caribbean dish made with pigeon peas (guandú), often combined with coconut milk. It reflects African, indigenous, and Spanish influences in Colombian cuisine. Approximate Date of Origin: Colonial period, influenced by African culinary traditions. Main Ingredients: Pigeon peas (guandú), coconut milk, rice, pork or beef, onion, garlic, and spices. When It Is Used: It is especially popular during festive seasons, particularly at the end of the year, and is widely enjoyed in coastal cities like Barranquilla.
• Chilaquiles Verdes (2026) — History: Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican dish with roots in indigenous cuisine, later influenced by Spanish ingredients. They were created as a way to reuse leftover tortillas. Approximate Date of Origin: Pre-Columbian origins, adapted during the colonial period. Main Ingredients: Tortilla chips (totopos), green sauce (tomatillo), cream, cheese, onion, and sometimes chicken or eggs. When It Is Used: Commonly eaten as a breakfast or brunch dish, especially in Mexican households and during family gatherings.
• The Two Fridas (2026) — Painting about identity and emotions.
• Aztec Sun Stone (2026) — symbol of time and the universe
• Codex Mendoza (2026) — Record of Aztec life and economy

About the creator

Gabriela Vega on Galerra