Erick by Michelle Angela Ortiz. Photo by Luna Park.
"If my parents are deported, I will have to raise my sister." - Erick, 13 years old
One of the beautiful things about public art is that it can give voice to the people we most need to hear from. We don't need to be sold the latest Hollywood movie. Right now, we need to hear from people like Erick about the real-life realities of US immigration policy.
We're honored to have Michelle Angela Ortiz participating in Art in Ad Places this week, and couldn't have asked for a more timely and poignant contribution. Michelle is one of Philadelphia's best muralists, and her practice focuses on the immigrant experience. If you're not already, be sure to follow her on Instagram.
"My portrait of Erick represents the many families affected by the threat of deportations," Michelle explained to us, "In this current anti-immigrant climate, it is necessary to represent the images and messages of immigrant communities fighting for a better life in this country."
Erick by Michelle Angela Ortiz. Photo by Luna Park.