Hundreds of ceramic figurines will emerge from the banks of the Red River on

Saturday, June 18 when ceramic artist Guillermo Guardia presents "Crossing the Border", a temporary

public art installation on the Greenway. The installation, which will flank the Sorlie Bridge in Grand Forks

and East Grand Forks, calls attention to the hopes and challenges associated with immigration. "Crossing

the Border" will be on view from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in downtown Grand Forks.

Three hundred ceramic figurines will appear to be running toward the Red River in East Grand Forks and

emerging from the river in Grand Forks. The handmade figurines, each about five inches tall, are brightly

colored to suggest diverse cultures, experiences, and heritages that are shaped by immigration.

"Immigration defines, in part, the American experience", Guardia notes. "People immigrate for many

reasons. Most look for a better future and for opportunities. In this installation, the whimsical and

playful figurines highlight hopes and aspirations associated with immigration. Underlying these hopes,

however, are critical challenges that impact the decision to immigrate or experiences during

immigration".