EVENTS

The idea for this painting emerged from my interest and research in recent years regarding the vulnerability of migrants as they take on the dangerous journey of crossing the border.

In my process of developing ideas, I often talk to people in my community and listen to their stories. We often discuss their experiences of migrating to the United States and their life in their home country. Their stories often spark feelings that I then pursue in the studio.

After listening to numerous stories and observing everything that has been happening at the southern border in recent years, it has become evident to me that one of the primary reasons why people leave everything behind and, in many cases, even risk their lives in the treacherous desert is due to their love for their families. Their ultimate goal is to improve their family’s quality of life. And so, in this painting, I wanted to focus on that love and the vulnerability they face as migrants take on that journey to the north.

This painting shows a mother with her children under a tree. They are surrounded by grass and dirt. She holds them tight as the children try to get some sleep, and she remains vigilant of her surroundings. This painting is not about one specific person but a universal story.

In this work, I also explored mark-making and the visual language I use to illustrate figures. Highly influenced by the work of Käthe Kollwitz and Mexican muralist José Clemente Orozco, I hope to evoke emotions that reflect the heartbreaking reality of these experiences and deep love. 

Arely Morales, 2024