White Flag, 1992

The portfolio Columbus: In Search of a New Tomorrow was conceived Michael Domberger and published under the patronage of King Juan Carlos of Spain and of documenta IX. 37 artists, musicians and authors contributed to this publication in protest of the destruction of nature and native cultures in South America, these included Roy Lichtenstein, Christo, Sigmar Polke, Antoni Tàpies, Eduardo Chillida, Nan June Paik, Robert Mangold and Robert Longo amongst others.

Longo`s contribution to the portfolio is a rendition of the US-American flag in white. The white color of the flag in this context is significant because it symbolizes surrender or truce. In this case, the use of the American flag in white signifies a form of surrender or acknowledgment of past wrongs.  By presenting the American flag in a subdued, monochromatic palette, Longo prompts viewers to reconsider the traditional symbolism associated with the flag and to reflect on the darker aspects of American history, including the displacement and marginalization of indigenous communities.