- CollegeCamberwell College of Arts
- CourseBA (Hons) Illustration
- Graduation year2024
An art concept book inspired by the adventures of historical figure named 'Diego' (alias) on board Sir Francis Drake's infamous Circumnavigation of 1577. The artwork and accompanied text aim to speculate what such a retelling would look like, and the book exists to be a commentary on what purpose fictionalisation has in telling events from history.
Excerpt from 'Diego the Interpreter: The Art of Speculation':
"Besides his linguistic flexibility in English and Spanish, Diego proves himself to be an invaluable crewmate aboard the Golden Hinde through fortifying shelters, to charming potential allies with his strangely cunning plans.
Having sailed with the English once before, the Circumnavigation of 1577 sees Diego’s steady climb into leadership. Favoured by the crew for his calm confidence, that was a welcome contrast to Captain Drake’s riotous orders.
Diego falls into the rhythm of his new life and is determined to overwrite his debilitating past with his achievements on the seas. However, his plans are tested when horizons widen, and suddenly seafaring isn’t the only affection in his life. Forced to find his value not in his works but in something greater, Diego learns to let one hand go of the sails."
Final work
Preface
This is a work of fiction, inspired by real lives and events.
The appearance, personalities, and relationships of many of the characters have been altered from their historic counterparts for artistic interpretation in an attempt to make an engaging story, but the cultures they represent are real and influenced today. Please approach this body of work with an openness to speculation and to not replace genuine historical research with this book.
Curious readers who want a comprehensive, historical insight on the mentioned topics should seek their own sources. If I may recommend a place to start, I highly insist you read Sir Francis Drake Revived compiled from the notes of Philip Nichols and Sir Francis Drake himself, and Drake and His Yeomen scribed by James Barnes from the perspective of Sir Matthew Maunsell.
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Diego the Interpreter: The Art of Speculation
An art concept book inspired by the adventures of historical figure named 'Diego' (alias) on board Sir Francis Drake's infamous Circumnavigation of 1577. The artwork and accompanied text aim to speculate what such a retelling would look like, and the book exists to be a commen...
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