La Feria en Reynosa

One image that struck me from Carmen Lomas Garza’s work is La feria en Reynosa. I really like the details, composition, and bright colors that fill the image with an atmosphere of happiness and harmony, like a little girl might experience it. The image feels timeless: the dolls, embroidered shirts, and regional dishes could be found at any feria in Mexico. However, if one looks closer, the complex reality of living on the U.S.-Mexico border is revealed by details such as the barbed-wire fence in the background (which represents the border) and the pensive expression of the two women sitting at a table in the foreground.

            In this piece I can see the social injustices, economic inequalities, and everyday struggles that many people at the border have to deal with. For me, the facial expressions of some of the people in the painting represent different stories and feelings. The painting transports the viewer into their stories, and makes one reflect on their own experience of parties and similar festivities. While on the surface everything is bright and happy, there are always hidden struggles and sad stories. Garza’s work is very subtle because the first impressions it brings are happy and nostalgic feelings. She can capture the joy of these important family gathering moments, but at the same time she hints at a much deeper meaning behind the festivities.