FAR FROM HOME
 
     This installation is an expression of the plight of refugees in camps all over the world.  The double cages refer to both the political and physical forces that create a kind of prison for the refugees. Many have no hope of returning to their homes and remain dependent on aid organizations.  I began this piece after the beginning of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  The camps represented in this installation are :  Syrian, Rohinga, Palestinian, Congo, and Equador.
     By the end of 2016, one in every 113 people on the planet was a refugee which meant that 65.6 million are refugees. (UN Refugee Agency).   The Palestinian refugees are not included in the UNHCR count (about 7.2m).  They have a separate tally which is now 66.8 % of their population.  (Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics.)
 
65.6 forcibly displaced people worldwide
55% come from South Sudan (1.4 million) , Afghanistan (2.5m), Syria (5.5m)
20 people are forcibly displaced every minute
 
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detail, Far From Home

detail, Far from Home, Congo

Collateral Debris

I believe it was President George Bush who when asked about the civilian deaths in the war in Iraq, responded that they were "Collateral Damage."  This piece consisting of charred wood, wire boats, and rocks, is my response to that remark.