Gilded Streets

For my AP Art Drawing Portfolio, I investigated the topic of the journey of a mid-20th-century European Immigrant coming to America. I looked at different points in an immigrant’s life, as well as the symbolism behind making the treacherous journey. Gilded Streets is a commentary on how potential immigrants were told that America had “streets of gold”. The artwork consists of two panels that are on hinges. When closed, the grey drawing of New York City buildings is overlayed by the clear acrylic sheet depicting gold building outlines. When open, the gold is scene as disconnected and out-of-reach, leaving behind a dreary future for many. Ripped portions of immigrant documents line the streets.