Block Print - Juanita Alba Vanegas's Portfolio

Linocut 3 feet x 24” edition of 10, printed on Japanese paper

This piece explores the multifaceted reasons prompting migration from Latin America to Canada, portraying a spectrum of situations shaping this exodus. From the harsh realities of violence and conflict to the allure of opportunities for work and education abroad, each image in the composition represents a distinct facet of the migrant experience.

Drawing from her personal experience as a newcomer who has chosen to embrace the "immigrant" label, Juanita aimed to challenge the simplistic narratives that often surround Latin American migrants, whether idealized or stigmatized. Her goal is to confront the complexities of this phenomenon, highlighting the contradictory forces that drive individuals to seek new beginnings in foreign lands.

This is a portrait of the migrant's past, whether spanning generations or mere days before arrival. It speaks to the universal human quest for belonging and identity, emphasizing the journey of self-discovery that unfolds when one finds themselves in a new country, navigating the intersections of culture, history, and personal aspirations. It is about transcending labels and finding one's place—and true self—in the world.