The American Manifest is Charles Gaines's first public art project, unfolding in three parts over the course of two years across three locations - Times Square, Governors Island, and the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati. Featuring both performance and large-scale sculptural works, The American Manifest traces the complicated story of the over 400-year settlement of the United States, exploring the country’s foundations of colonialism, racial capitalism, democracy, and the legacy of Manifest Destiny. The American Manifest begins in Times Square with a performance-based installation and sculptural series of Sweetgum trees.