MIGRACION SELECTIVA (Selective Migration)
Measures: 88 x 210cm/ 31 x 82in
Year: 2012
Composition: Mixed on Wood
Artist: Javier López Pastrana
Introduction:
The United States has long been a destination for Latin American migrants seeking a better life and economic opportunities. However, the journey is not without its challenges, particularly for Mexican migrants who face language barriers and cultural differences upon arrival. Through this painting we explore the issue of Mexican migrants adapting to the English language and American culture, the temporary barriers they encounter, and the process of integrating both cultures into a new socioeconomic environment.
The Language Barrier and Its Impact:
One of the primary challenges faced by Mexican migrants is the language barrier. Many individuals embark on the journey without knowing English, which poses obstacles in their daily lives. Communicating with employers, accessing public services, and interacting with the local community becomes a struggle, hindering their ability to fully integrate. Lack of formal education further exacerbates the language barrier, making it difficult to overcome in a short period.
The Importance of Adaptation:
Adapting to a new language and culture is essential for successful integration. Efforts to learn English and understand American customs play a crucial role in bridging the gap between Mexican migrants and the local population. Language acquisition programs and community initiatives that provide language classes and cultural orientation can empower individuals and facilitate their integration into American society.
The Value of Mexican Migrants in the Labor Market:
Despite the initial language and cultural challenges, Mexican migrants contribute significantly to the U.S. labor market. They often take on jobs that Americans may not prefer, performing essential tasks in industries such as agriculture, construction, and hospitality. Their hard work, dedication, and willingness to undertake labor-intensive jobs help meet the demand in sectors that would otherwise struggle to find a workforce.
Socioeconomic Integration and Cultural Exchange:
The integration of Mexican migrants and American society involves a reciprocal process of cultural exchange. As Mexican migrants adapt to the English language and American culture, they also bring their own traditions, customs, and perspectives. This dynamic interaction fosters mutual understanding and enrichment, shaping a new hybrid culture that reflects the diverse backgrounds of both communities.e of Mexican Migrants in the Labor Market:
Artist Quote
"Again, I find myself dealing with the issue of human migration.
Latin Americans trying to reach the United States where one of the main obstacles is the language structure to which the migrants must adapt.
Inside the Crotalic centered squares there are many cubes with letters in the style of the typefaces of mechanical typewriters, that scattered alphabet and without a specific order denote that there must be a coding. They are exactly the same letters for different languages. The only thing that changes is the form of coding to be able to communicate both concrete and abstract ideas together with the changes in the phonemes of each grapheme. Hence, adaptation becomes selective according to the communication capacity that each individual denotes.
The migrant who adapts more quickly to the change in the language coding structure will be able to adapt more easily to his socioeconomic environment, without differentiating between being a man or a woman.
Again, I use human footprints as a representation of the human walk. To all this, it surrounds a rhythmic composition and with movements"
Artwork Color Palet Aesthetic and symbol
Mocha Brown (7D4443): This earthy brown color can symbolize stability, reliability, and grounding. It evokes a sense of warmth and connection to nature. Aesthetically, it can add depth and richness to a palette, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Ash Gray (A8A499): Gray is often associated with neutrality and balance. Ash Gray specifically can evoke a sense of calmness, sophistication, and timelessness. Aesthetically, it provides a versatile and modern base color that complements other shades well.
Amber Gold (C19358): The warm and radiant tone of Amber Gold can symbolize energy, vitality, and abundance. It is often associated with autumn and the golden hues of sunlight. Aesthetically, it adds warmth and vibrancy to a color scheme, creating a sense of luxury and opulence.
Dark shade of plum purple (403132): Symbolically, this color can evoke a sense of mystery, sophistication, and introspection. It represents depth, creativity, and a touch of elegance. Aesthetically, 403132 adds richness and depth to a color palette, creating a dramatic and luxurious ambiance. It can be used as a bold accent color or as a base to enhance other lighter shades. Overall, 403132 exudes a sense of allure and intrigue, making it a captivating choice for design and artistic expressions.
Rusty Orange (9F4D38): Rusty Orange is a warm and earthy shade that can symbolize energy, creativity, and passion. It often evokes feelings of warmth, enthusiasm, and vitality. Aesthetically, it adds a pop of color and can create a bold and dynamic focal point in a design.
Symbolism and Technique in the Artwork
In this image the protagonists of the migration are represented, with unmistakable characteristics that leave no doubt about the Mexican or Latin American origin of the migrant, the tanned color of the skin, the hair in braids, a very common trait in indigenous women as well as the folkloric mexican design skirt.
This close-up shows the sculpture technique of the artist, despite of being a painting the small reliefs elements features a person's face carved into the wood surface with intricate details that can be seen on its surface. The facial features are clearly visible, including eyes, nose and mouth.
Despite being a static piece, it is impossible to avoid the feeling that it is moving in a hurry due to the symbolism in the footsteps and the position of the arms. A certain face of relief can be observed possibly for leaving behind unpleasant or unfavorable environments, which is why migration occurs.
The language boxes in each central square represented by letters without order, part of the confusion when facing an unknown language that makes up this cultural barrier, and that
instinctively activates the rapid adaptation of new customs, laws and duties.
The squares are located inside a dark area and abstractly it is being codified and translated.
Reference to this Painting on NeoCrotalic.com
The next link will take you to the painting gallery where you can see more pictures of this artwork: Mexican Painitng Migracion Selectiva
Allusive NeoCrotalic Components Elements in the artwork that exemplify the Neocrotalic style
The composition of this work is made under the premises of NeoCrotalic art, where the use of the geometric pattern of the CANAMAYTE located on the skin of the crotalus durisus viper that inhabits the Mayan region and that pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican cultures used for their fine arts is resumed. As well as the elements of the Best method of Adolfo Best Maugard.
How to Purchase
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Contact us and schedule a visit or a video call to discuss any questions related to the acquisition of the work. Our contact information can be found in the bottom of the page of the artwork: https://www.neocrotalic.com/mexican-painting/migracion-selectiva
Conclusion:
The journey of Mexican migrants to the United States involves overcoming temporary barriers, such as language and cultural adaptation, as they strive for a better life. By acknowledging the challenges faced by Mexican migrants and providing the necessary support, society can embrace their contributions and facilitate their integration. This artwork reflects on this aspect and it is esential to understand the struggles that Migrants face towards a better life.
We invite you to discover more artworks in our Mexican Art Blog as well as visit NeoCrotalic Mexican Contemporary Art Website and finally the Mexican Artist Javier Lopez Pastrana website.
We hope you enjoy this artwork and being the lucky collector of this important and representative piece of Contemporary Mexican Art. We will launch more articles for mexican paintings for sale for your enjoy and reference.