Fall 2023 - 1.3 Borders/Fronteras

A border is an imposed line that separates geographic areas into territories. Historically, this act of enforcing national borders has altered the lives of millions—particularly here in what is now called Southern California. But, borders do not only signify the carving up of land for political power, they are enforced in many other forms—culturally, mentally and philosophically. The artists in this issue challenge this phenomenon and make work towards a politic of mobility and freedom.

For the first year of our publication, we have chosen to focus on land. Living in the Inland Empire, we have seen the landscape change. How do these changes shape the ways in which we produce, know and negotiate space?* In our upcoming issues, we will observe the environmental impact industry has had on our community and consider the notion of borders in all their forms—geographic, mental and philosophical. Each edition will feature an artist and supporting contributors in conversation addressing our theme. We look to the history of this land, the ancestral home of the Serrano people, for ways to honor it and preserve it.