Jesse James
The Venezuela-born artist, Harif Guzman, is back. The renowned New York City contemporary artist recently announced, in collaboration with TCR.ART, that his new public art installation entitled The Last Mile will be on display for Miami Art Week. The installation can be found in Miami’s Little Haiti, offering a unique portrayal of the American Dream. ‘The Last Mile’ is a 9-foot tall and 15-foot wide structure representative of “the wall” between the USA and Mexico. The artist invites viewers to experience, at an interactive scale, what thousands of immigrants face daily.
The installation is made from steel, cement, and cinder blocks, chosen to represent the strength and power in this first obstacle to obtaining the dream. There is also an 18-foot wooden sculpture that is representative of the immigrant worker coming across with honest intention. The figure is crafted from different sizes and types of reclaimed wood, symbolizing the numerous races and nations immigrating to this country. Guzman stated: “The Last Mile is a representation of the human need to overcome obstacles, grasp opportunities, and provide security for their families,” said Harif Guzman. “There is no political agenda. This wall does not discriminate. Regardless of gender, race, or sexual orientation, everyone must face and cross this barrier to achieve success, acquire education, and fully empower themselves.”
There is even a tunnel integrated into the structure. This feature allows viewers to interact with the piece and experience what it is like to cross this barrier. Take a look at ‘The Last Mile’ in the images below and look for the installation now, until Sunday, December 8th at 5501 NE 2nd Ave. in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood. In the meantime, keep it locked with The Culture Curators for much more from the art department coming soon.
Photos via Harif Guzman
