This series of paintings and drawings that are mostly inspired by the widely-circulated photographs of the U.S. Border Patrol’s pursuit of Haitian migrants in 2021. It’s important that the study of these images refer to true events
I aim to transcend a pure documentary re-creation and speak about the power dynamics in governmental policy that responds to migrants and refugees with threats of violence and imprisonment.

Indeed, years of instilling fear of an invasion into U.S. nativists has created a police force that has grown exponentially in my lifetime. The images of families with children, who pose no threat, being confronted by armed men on horseback clearly depicts this unnecessary use of power. I highlight the horse as a symbol for this power, and link it to historical representations of this power dynamic, such as the Spanish conquest and the ‘slave patrols’ of the American South.

Realist techniques emphasize the physical strength and beauty of the horse, as well as the humanity of the refugees. Expressive marks depict movement and capture the emotions of the moment. In almost all cases, I simplify the composition and render only what is necessary. Fundamentally, the work is about connecting the viewer emotionally to the people, to provoke action towards a more compassionate immigration system.