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This piece reflects on the story of Geraldo—someone Esperanza (the main character) meets only briefly, but whose absence leaves a lasting impact. With no identification and no way for his family to be notified, Geraldo becomes a representation of the many undocumented people whose lives and stories can go unseen or unrecognized. Through meaningful symbols and objects that represent memories, the artist explores the traces people leave behind and the stories that remain after someone is gone. This work reflects on identity, belonging, and the importance of honoring the lives, experiences, and memories of those who are too often forgotten. Made possible by the NEA Big Read Grant through Arts Midwest and the National Endowment for the Arts

From Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center

  1. Mi Cultura Mis Raices by Mariela Paz, Image 1.

    Mariela Paz

    Mi Cultura Mis Raices, 2024

    Gouache and Colored Pencil

    12 x 18 in (30.48 x 45.72 cm)

  2. Untitled by Mariela Paz, Image 1.

    Mariela Paz

    Untitled, 2022

    Acrylic On Canvas

    20 x 24 in (50.8 x 60.96 cm)

  3. Untitled by Mariela Paz, Image 1.

    Mariela Paz

    Untitled, 2022

    Acrylic On Canvas

    40 x 30 in (101.6 x 76.2 cm)

  4. Frida and Fulang by Mariela Paz, Image 2.

    Mariela Paz

    Frida and Fulang, 2022

    Acrylic

    30 x 40 in (76.2 x 101.6 cm)

  5. Ready for the Ball by Mariela Paz, Image 1.

    Mariela Paz

    Ready for the Ball, 2021

    Acrylic On Canvas

    12 x 16 in (30.48 x 40.64 cm)

  6. A place between by Nathalie Pineda Bermudez, Image 1.

    Nathalie Pineda Bermudez

    A place between

  7. Honduras - Doors to Mi Barrio by Mariela Paz, Image 1.

    Mariela Paz

    Honduras - Doors to Mi Barrio

    Acrylic On Door

    80 x 29.5 in (203.2 x 74.93 cm)

  8. Vision in the Sky by Elizabeth Picado, Image 1.

    Elizabeth Picado

    Vision in the Sky

    Watercolor

    14 x 20 in (35.56 x 50.8 cm)