Icons & Symbols of the Borderland:
Art from the U.S.-Mexico Crossroads
August 24, 2024 – January 19, 2025
“Now, more than ever, the U.S.-Mexico boundary is at the forefront of the national conversation. The artists reflect on the lived experience both north and south of the border and the inherent Mestizaje, a blend of Indigenous, Mexican, and American heritage. Providing a close-up view of the crossroads at a critical point in U.S. history, the artwork makes vibrant personal and political statements that inspire constructive dialogue and connective tissue to bridge divisions and better shape our future” –Diana Molina, Exhibition Curator & Artist
The U.S.-Mexico border region is a convergent point of histories, interwoven to produce a unique culture full of rich tradition and beauty. The artists in Icons & Symbols of the Borderland: Art from the U.S.-Mexico Crossroads call this area home. All artists are members of the JUNTOS Art Association (est. 1985, El Paso, Texas), whose art is deeply informed by both their heritage and everyday life near the border. More than 80 works—including large paintings, collage, neon, photography and sculpture—will be on view.
This exhibition explores the shared experiences of those who live in one of the nation’s most controversial landscapes. Within the exhibition’s themes of environment, borders, foodways, and the sacred and profane, guests will find repeated icons and symbols spanning the artists’ work. These shared motifs reflect and inform regional consciousness. Together, the artworks contextualize the borderland and offer a glimpse into a hyper-present Western experience.
This exhibition is organized and curated by Diana Molina.
Exclusive Member Opening Reception
Museum members are invited to join us for the opening reception of Icons & Symbols of the Borderland: Art from the U.S.-Mexico Crossroads. Exhibition curator and artist Diana Molina will be in attendance. Members can also preview the exhibition August 22–23 during regular museum hours.
Space is limited; registration required for the reception.
EXHIBITION PROGRAMMING
The James Museum will host a variety of programs for guests to delve deeper into Icons & Symbols of the Borderland and celebrate Mexican culture and art, several of which will take place during National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15).
MEMBER EXCLUSIVES
August 23 | Exclusive Member Opening Reception
September 3 | Special Exhibition Tour | Hosted by the Trailblazers
YOUTH & FAMILY
September 14 | Family Day: Foodways
ADULT PROGRAMS
August 24 | Gallery Tour with Curator Diana Molina
September 19 | Book Club – A Ballad of Love and Glory by Reyna Grande
September 24 | History Hangout – Borders, Frontiers and Identities
October 8 | Film – CARLOS: The Santana Journey (2023)
October 18 | Dance Performance and Artist Talk with Melissa Melpignano
October 19 | Somatic Movement Workshop with Artist & Dancer Melissa Melpignano
November 8 | Artist Talk with Oscar Moya: The Maquila Blues Series
November 9 | Introduction to Monotype Printmaking with Artists Oscar Moya & Lydia Limas
MUSIC NIGHTS
September 10 | Live Performance: La Lucha
October 8 | Listening Party & Local Market: Selena
SPECIAL EXHIBITION TOURS
Docent-led tours will be every daily from 3–4 p.m. while the special exhibition is on view.
Space is limited; click on each program name to register.
