Each year, millions of Monarch butterflies embark on a multi-generational journey migrating from Mexico to Canada and back—known as a super generation, some will travel an unimaginable distance of 3,000 miles across North America! Their presence in our region greatly contributes to the bounty of our valley—pollinating the hops, fruit and produce that make our agricultural sector.

As the daughter of immigrant parents, I have long admired the Monarch’s strength, determination, and will to traverse mountains and terrains, despite the harsh and uncertain living conditions. Similarly, my parents, as well as millions of other people in this nation have migrated, leaving their homelands in search of a better quality of life. Migration, for both Monarch and people, represents an act of survival; unlike Monarchs however, many people end up hiding their beautiful wings, living in fear, and oftentimes working in laborious jobs that we now refer to as “essential.”

Yakima (WA) is a bountiful and abundant valley, where 50% of Yakima’s population identifies as Latinx/Hispanic, and agricultural jobs account for more than a quarter of the region's economy—making it an attractive destination for many of these migrant workers. Without the help of these essential workers, this region’s land will not be tended to, cared for nor harvested.

It is my hope that through my art practice, conversations can get started about redefining, and humanizing this global phenomenon of migration. I believe that if we share our stories, our ancestors' stories as well as our histories, we realize that many of us share similar backgrounds, struggles and even aspirations and achievements. We do not get to decide where we want to be born or live, and in which generation, but one thing I know for certain is that we can choose to use our voices, our craft and our to talents to advocate, empower, and spark dialogue about the safety, security and future well being of these migrant mariposas.

This painting was created with designer gouache paint, onto 100% cotton, acid free paper. This is a one of a kind painting, not a print.

Paper Size: 15.25”x22.5”

Image Size: 13.25”x19.5”

Paper: Arches Watercolor, 300 gsm, 100% cotton fibers, acid free

Paint: Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache

*painting does not come framed

Shipping: Paintings are carefully packaged and shipped in 3-5 business days.