Si vas para Chile

Year Completed: 2022

Medium: Lithography: Limestone

Size: 22in x 15in

In the production of this lithograph, four different colors were used on 100% cotton paper. The process of lithography involves drawing on a stone or plate and completing the process by means of a chemical reaction. 

In this artwork, various objects are linked together to convey meaning to the piece. The main object is a Chilean 100-peso coin, which is designed differently in Chile than it was when I came to the United States at the age of nine. Now it has a more luxurious design with a golden border. 

A key component of this work is the iconic welcome sign with George W. Bush’s name, which greets people as they pass through west Texas.  

The flowers below the coin represent Chile’s national flower, which is called a “Copihue” or “Bellflower”. 

Additionally, the needles around the image tend to tie everything together, evoking my grandmother’s and great grandmother’s sowing. 

It is not always possible to buy everything brand new in Chile, we are used to fixing things. The needles and thread bring back memories and pride of the country where I was raised, which ties together all of the elements. Authenticity and roots are represented by the flowers. In addition to being placed above the coin, the welcome sign reminds us that first impressions matter. Your faith and what you believe must be displayed wherever you go. Finally, the coin teaches us that we all have the capacity to change, for the better. This piece also refers to a Chilean song, but is ironic due to the fact that you cannot see this old coin “If you visit Chile.”