Building Dreams Higher Than Any Borders. 2023.

Brick, wood, chain, clothes of immigrants, wax, plaster.

Through my installation, I seek to explore the complex and often contradictory experiences of immigrants in the United States. I hope to shed light on the challenges and obstacles faced by those who come to this country seeking a better life, while also acknowledging the resilience and strength of those who persist in the face of adversity.

My installation features two immigrant construction workers, each at a different stage of the immigrant experience. The first bust portrays a newly arrived migrant who is full of hope and ready to pursue the American dream. This figure is hopeful and resilient, with a determined expression and a sense of purpose. The second bust represents the harsh reality that many immigrants face after years of living and working in the United States. The skin is peeling off, the features are beaten and worn, and there is a sense of wear and tear that reflects the struggles and challenges of the immigrant experience. This figure is a testament to the inexistence of the American dream, a reminder that for many immigrants, the promise of a better life is elusive and unattainable.

What unites both workers is a chain that links them together. The chain symbolizes the common bond shared by all immigrants, regardless of their country of origin, race, or background. The chain also represents the connections between past and present, between those who came before and those who are still struggling to make a better life in the United States.

Alongside these workers, the installation features a collection of clothes on the ground, representing the immigrants who built the foundation of the country we stand on. These garments are a powerful symbol of the contributions and sacrifices made by immigrants throughout history, from the construction workers who built our cities and infrastructure to the laborers who toiled in fields and factories.

By depicting these two busts side by side and including the clothes of immigrants on the ground, I aim to capture the complexity and nuance of the immigrant experience, and to challenge viewers to see beyond stereotypes and preconceived notions. This installation is a tribute to the millions of immigrants who have contributed to the fabric of our society, and a reminder that their stories deserve to be heard and celebrated.