“Letters from My Exile” is a participatory art project that pairs portraits and letters that tell the story of people who have endured tremendous sacrifice in their quest for a better life. Addressed to family members, the letters talk about forced family separation and feelings of distance and loss experienced by migrants. The project explores the core concept of family through distance, memory and absences, as experienced by immigrants in New York City who are unable to return to their country of origin and of people that have endured a forced family separation cause by immigration policies.
Artist Bios
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Diana Bejarano
I am a Colombian photographer and visual artist living in Queens, New York. In my artistic practice I use photography, mixed media and video with a documentary approach to speak about current social issues. I am extremely moved by people’s stories of struggle and injustices as well as courage and strength — stories that encompass our human condition and our resilience. My recent work has been focused on issues dealing with immigration and forced family separation. I regularly work on projects focused on communities and collaborate with nonprofit organizations to develop socially engaged projects. Through my work, I hope to raise awareness and tolerance through the language of art. My work has been part of exhibitions in New York City and Colombia.
Organizations
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United Photo Industries (UPI)
United Photo Industries (UPI) is a New York based nonprofit organization that works to promote a wider understanding of, and increased access to, the art of photography.
Since its founding in 2011, UPI has rapidly solidified its position in the public art landscape by continuing to showcase thought-provoking, challenging, and exceptional photography from across the globe. In its first seven years, UPI has presented the work of more than 2,500 visual artists in gallery exhibitions and public art installations worldwide.
Letters from my Exile
Featuring: Diana Bejarano
Curated by: Miguel Angel Valderrama
Locations
View Location Details Download a detailed map of this location Brooklyn Bridge Park – Emily Warren Roebling Plaza1 Water St
Brooklyn, NY 11201
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