Where Borders Cross

Artist's Statement

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       While I have spent most of my career photographing the ocean, I have held deep concerns about the plight of the natural world, humanity, and the connection between them. This series focuses on two divides: the natural border between the Pacific Ocean and the North American Continent, and the man-made border between the United States and Mexico. Prior to photographing this project, I came across an interview with Mexican singer/songwriter Lila Downs. In response to President Trump’s border wall, Downs expressed “I think we should create art along this area, and I think we should come together and really show that we have love for each other."

 

       Indeed, the border wall is becoming a place for art. Creations vary from a few words, to small paintings, and large murals. It seems as if the first half-mile on the western end of the Mexico border is a single work of art, despite being created by many people. Together they make up a beautiful work of art about humanity. I often wonder if people care about the wall during this Covid-19 pandemic. But what somebody wrote on one of the posts that make up the wall, says it all for me. "This is about Humanity."

 

       The corona crisis, the environmental crisis, the border crisis, and human rights crisis are connected. Can humanity transcend what we've been? Can we work together and make the sacrifices to overcome the fact that human civilization is currently unsustainable?