Las Cruces, New Mexico

In 1849 52 boundary markers, stacks of stones, were placed to mark the new boundary between Mexico and the United States. Later in that century 258 concrete obelisks were placed to reinforce those original markers. Far from the Wall of steel fences and concertina wire, these markers were simple markers on the porous border of friendly countries.

The Federal Courthouse in Las Cruces, New Mexico deals with many legal issues but overwhelmingly cases involve immigration. The most painful decisions send illegal immigrants back to their original countries, often separating families. The most joyous are naturalization ceremonies granting immiigrants U.S. citizenship.

The Obelisk and Divide, inspired by border boundary markers between the United States and Mexico, are not just a simple reference to this geographic demarcation. The two sculptures are a metaphor for the cultural and historical context that these markers represent. They serve as standing monuments to the complex issues of the border, the judicial process and their sociological implications, touching many of the lives of those who enter this building. Sculpted from a laminated column of honey onyx and marble, the Obelisk actually replicates the border markers in their dimension. The use of honey onyx, a stone found in Mexico, with the marble, which is abundant in the United States, further builds upon this compelling metaphor.

Photography by Craig Collins.

Materials & Dimensions

Dimensions: Obelisk: 6’ x 1’ x1’. Portal: 6.5’ x 1’ x 14’.