The River, 2021
Acrylic on paper, 10” x 20”
The River Little Library, 2021
18” x 20” x 18”, painted plywood
Books donated by John M. Flaxman Library at School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The River (2021) is a mural concept dealing with migration in the hispanic culture and heritage. The river represents the border between the United States and Mexico where many migrants cross in search of a better future. The concept also shows the struggle in reaching their dreams. The landscape painting at the center of the mural proposal represents hope through the beauty of Mexico’s terrain. Especially the beauty in the artist’s parents’ hometown of Tiquicheo.
The Molina Architecture Studio at Molina High School led by Danielle Odis, teaches students skills in design through conceptual public projects like the Little Free Library. Alexander decided to incorporate the Little Free Library concept into his mural in an attempt to engage community placemaking. The design of the library is based on the concepts of migration coming from the development of the mural. Until a permanent mural takes place, the Little Free Library will introduce itself to the community at the Oak Cliff Cultural Center.
In the recording the artist reads the story as it was written by his father.
Father’s story
Alexander Lopez was born in 2002 in Dallas,Texas. He is of Mexican-American heritage. His father was born in Dallas and his mother was born Tiquicheo, Michoacán. He grew up in Oak Cliff and is currently a senior at Molina High School. He is currently enrolled in the architecture program at Molina. Alexander became interested in architecture when he and his father began watching HGTV. He loved the idea of remodeling homes and helping people design their home.
His interest in architecture has led him to pursue a career in engineering or architecture. He is currently applying to University of Texas at Arlington and University of North Texas at Dallas.
