Homenaje A Los Braceros

"In the fields of abundance, they reaped a bitter harvest—one of sweat, sacrifice, and silent dignity."
 This design was a response to an RFQ put out by the city of Los Angeles.
The Bracero's were the Mexican immigrants who were employed and brought here to support the agricultural production of the United States / Southern California during the 1940's - 1960's. 

A large-scale statue of a young, strong man (9-10 feet tall) will be crafted with worker's hands and tools, dressed in the attire typical of Braceros. The statue will symbolize the "Bitter Harvest" as he stands among crates of oranges, representing the 20 states where 4.5 million Braceros labored. The oranges will cascade onto the base, linking the monument to Southern California's agricultural history.
The base, hewn from granite with rough edges to represent the soil, will incorporate both bronze and granite, symbolizing the Bracero's connection to the land. The actual base will feature clean lines, with deeply etched scenes of stoop labor and fields stretching to infinity, along with the monument's title.
 
On the second side, an orange tree with roots symbolizing Mexico, a trunk representing the Bracero movement, and branches bearing fruit for the 20 states will be depicted.

The third side will illustrate the vast number of men, their arduous journey, and their dedication despite harsh conditions in pursuit of a better life.
 
The fourth side will feature the badge of Los Angeles County, representing agriculture, fisheries, architecture, and Hollywood, alongside a cityscape of Los Angeles. This side will highlight how the Bracero's cultural influence and labor became the backbone of the city.