Cabinet of Morbid Curiosities: The Richard Harris Collection

ZENDEJAS, Rodrigo Lara (Mexican American, b. 1981). Immigrant Identification Card. (Cachirules series). 2015. Wood, watercolor, saliva, human hair, metal, acrylic enamel, epoxy glue. This work does not include the video projection component. The installation is composed of six heavy plywood panels, each 36 x 84”. There are also three 14 ft. cleats to hang the panels. From the artist statement: “In this series, referencing Roman Mythology; I associate immigrants with God Janus, divinity of the transition, often portrayed with two faces, one looking towards the past and the other looking towards the future. Therefore, I sculpted two-faced portraits. The portraits in the pieces are present day immigrants who have bought fake documents in order to immerse into U.S. economy. I utilized their DNA, in some cases, the black letters are made out of their own hair and in other cases the colors are watercolor or acrylic paint mixed with their saliva. Creating a first-hand connection in this tangible objects with the immigrants in this country. Besides the DNA, the materials used in this ID pieces are supplies often used by immigrant labor such as construction workers.” Six heavy plywood panels, each 36 x 84”. There are also three 14 ft. x 9” cleats to hang the panels. Overall good condition. Third-party shipping required.