© Elvis Borrey – Back 2 the 1

“Back2the1” is a digital collage that powerfully captures the immigrant experience. The piece features a black man in a rowboat, his back turned to the viewer as he rows forward towards an uncertain future. The man is covered by a sea of numbers, perhaps representing the dehumanizing bureaucracy that so often accompanies the immigration process. Above him, a tranquil sky of light blue and purple children floating create a stark contrast to the harsh reality of his situation.

The figure of another man can be seen through a window in the distance, rowing in the opposite direction. This figure may symbolize the hardships faced by other immigrants, or perhaps even a reflection of the black man’s own struggles. Together, these elements come together to create a work of art that speaks to the complexities of the immigrant experience.

“Back2the1” explores the struggles and challenges faced by immigrants in our society. It encourages viewers to reflect on the dehumanizing impact of bureaucracy and the emotional toll of migration, while also highlighting the resilience and determination of those who make the difficult journey in search of a better life.