Immigration - art & reflection by Shelley Aikens

The nopal cactus grows everywhere in Mexico, and is a powerful image of national identity. The mythical image of an eagle perched atop a nopal with a snake in its mouth led the ancient Aztecs to settle Tenochtitlan, now known as Mexico City. Both the nopal paddles and fruit are eaten in Mexico. The fleshy paddles, which are carefully cleaned of their spines, then sliced and grilled, are reminiscent of green beans or okra, while the deep magenta fruit (called “tunas”) are eaten raw and taste similar to watermelon.

When considering the topic of immigration (specifically that of Mexicans making the dangerous journey across the desert to the U.S.), I wanted to depict the sadness, fear and isolation of the journey. I chose to paint the nopal cactus as a majestic figure, symbolizing national pride, abundance, and beauty. The figure of the nopal is appropriate for a topic as complicated and conflicting as immigration. While strong, beautiful and useful, the nopal is also quietly threatening and does not invite touch. In this painting, the prickly surface of the nopal is depicted by shredded documents. This use of materials alludes to the necessity for undocumented workers to piece together a new identity.

I also wanted to depict the journey from the Mexican viewpoint. The figures moving away from the viewer are leaving their homes and families. They would not be migrating if economic circumstances were not desperate. The loss of so many young, healthy workers is detrimental to Mexico’s economy and its farms. Americans who feel threatened by immigrants should understand that the crisis hurts both sides of the border.

The root of the issue is economic inequality. Building ever-higher and more threatening fences across the wilderness will not stop illegal immigration. Citizens on both sides of the border / issue need to recognize the humanity of those trapped in a heartbreaking situation. I hope that viewers of this painting will extend kindness and understanding to their fellow norteamericanos.