Subdivisions, pigment prints, 21.5"x43.5" framed ed. 1/3
Sub-divisions was created during an eight-month Fulbright investigation of the themes of domesticity, immigration, and national identity. The photographs are composed of Mexican landscapes with incomplete houses under construction called Obra Negras ("black works") contrasted with vintage appropriated images of the idealized American home. This body of work was fueled by their experience with immigration laws, which threatened their sense of home. The Federal Defense of Marriage Act bars same-sex couples from the right to sponsor an immigrant spouse for permanent residence. Most same-sex bi-national couples are forced to separate because the U.S. government views them as strangers under the law. Sub-divisions addresses the universality and fragility of their collective dream of having a home.
Obra Negra #8: Dream
Obra Negra #7: Toilette
Sub-divisions installation view
Obra Negra #6: Golden Guarantee
Sub-divisions installation view
Obra Negra #5: Pull N' Clean Oven
Sub-divisions Installation View
Obra Negra #3: Garden Hose
Obra Negra #2: Contemp. Declaration