“Practicing abolition at CDM, we believe borders are harmful to our society and ecosystem,” olivas said. “I hope the future of immigration is centered on care and ends the practice of disposability of the human beings that have often left their homes because of the U.S. government’s impact on their homelands.”
The biggest conduit of optimism? olivas said it’s the connective tissue of community.
“The most rewarding part has been working with my community to make this project possible,” he said. “Working with my partner and curator Ana Briz, CDM team, my artist assistants, and my gallerist, Charlie James and his team, has been very special for me. I feel supported. It’s been very meaningful.”
As the exhibition comes to a close — but olivas continues his years-long practice of creating around themes of immigration and labor — his hope is that migrant communities find freedom.
And as politicians continue to operate from a place of control and competition, his view of the world depicts something different.
“What always gives me hope are the children in our family and community. There is an Ifa proverb from the sacred Odu-Ifa that says ‘the doll-carrying masquerade who bears the Agba drum fiercely and repeatedly to perform rituals because of children,’” olivas said.
“When we are fighting for a world that practices abolition, we are building a better world for our children, to live a better life with dignity and respect. We are creating a kinder world that moves with care.”
Continued here.