IF YOU GO
What: Guillermo Guardia art installation
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: Sorlie Memorial Bridge on DeMers Avenue
Cost: Free
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Info: www.moguya.com
Guillermo Guardia’s new art installation hits home.
As a native of Peru, Guardia came to the United States to pursue a master’s of fine arts at UND. Since he came to America in 2002, Guardia has had his share of ups and downs.
The installation features about 55 small clay figures of children in motion. The figurines are displayed running, jumping and climbing along the bridge. The children come in many different colors and are meant to represent diversity.
At the other end of the bridge is a pack of wolves running toward the children, described by Guardia as the “dark side” of immigration and border crossing. The wolves, he said, show the struggles many face when crossing the border.
Guardia has faced many of the difficulties of immigration himself. He said he was inspired to do a project like this through his own personal experiences and by those he knows who have gone through tough times when emigrating.
“Immigration is not easy,” he said. “Many people are very poor and desperate in their native countries and are forced to leave their homes to come here for a better life.”
Guardia now works as an artist educator for the North Dakota Museum of Art. He said although he has had a good transition to the United States, others have not.
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“Emotionally, it takes a lot out of you,” he said. “You miss your family and friends, and it can be a struggle.”
Guardia will put the installation on display from noon to 4 p.m. at the Sorlie Memorial Bridge on Saturday. He will be available to discuss his work with those who come to see it.
Guardia displayed the figurines last weekend in Fargo and has also previously shown the figurines in Grand Forks.
Call Rupard at (701) 780-1122; (800) 477-6572, ext. 1122; or send email to wrupard@gfherald.com .
