For twelve years I have walked the migrant trails, collected items and contemplated opportunities to  bring items together in such a way to convey a sense of dignity of those who walked the trails and a respect for the sacrifice and suffering they endured. 

As an artist working in this field, I believe it is essential to my message and to my artwork for me to go into the desert often, to walk the trails and be active in the Tucson Samaritans who go into the desert daily looking for travelers who are lost or have been left behind. Over the years I've continued to study Spanish and traveled to Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Colombia, learning all I can about the issues that lead people to decide they must move North. 

My husband, Ed, has developed an extensive set of maps of the thousands of miles of trails walked by migrants in Southern Arizona. He is my greatest supporter and encourages me always to continue to share our work in order to educate others about what is happening in Southern Arizona, to educate others about the strength and courage of the people we have encountered and to educate others about the policies and attitudes that divide peoples.

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A simple metal fork, carried for miles and days. I ask myself, "How far would I walk to feed my family?"

A heavy, bulky blanket was left behind after a wet rainy night.

Desperate parents cross with children of all ages.

Injuries prevent people from continuing their journeys and too often they are left alone in the desert where they are unlikely to survive.

The extreme heat leads to dehydration, heat exhaustion and death.

Please contact me at mcculla@mac.com