The Wronged “Alien”

~18’’x14’’x32’’

Cardboard, Newsprint, Hot glue, Paint markers

Immigrants are often called “Aliens” and are even classified as “Resident Aliens” once they become citizens in America, despite many who migrate to America and put in hard work to create a better life. They are still heavily looked down upon by many. This piece is meant to represent an “alien” immigrant who has been wronged in a very violent way. The piece is covered in Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) designs that, like many who celebrate the holiday, paint their faces in tradition. This is to make the piece representative of Hispanic culture. The holiday is meant to honor the dead and celebrate life. However, the “alien”, even in front of their own home, gets set on fire. This fire represents how fast an immigrant's whole life can be changed. As fire destroys cardboard fast, so can a deportation officer destroy a home. Even in front of their own homes and families, as pictured, innocent immigrants are treated as aliens and criminals. Traces can be left behind, such as the pile of ashes and destroyed cardboard that was left in this piece. However, it does not mitigate the fact that it can all be taken away despite the hard efforts, long hours, restless nights, and undeniable determination.