First year MFA student Alondra Garza just got back from a residency at RDG Planning & Design, in Des Moines, Iowa. The residency ran from November 5th through 8th with an open house presentation on the last day. The focus during this time was a restoration project of the Douglas Avenue Corridor whose quality has declined over the years. The project brought artists, designers, architects, civil engineers, and urban planners together to look closely at the myriad factors that affect the said area, and to develop opportunities for its sustainable future. The envisioned projects aimed at attracting the community and engage the cultural diversity and ethnicity that resides in the locality. Garza's contribution started out as a mural, and evolved into a clay sculpture. Speaking about the project Garza said, "My sculpture is titled You are Your Roots. Basically, the neighbourhood in question has a lot of cultural diversity. The roots in my sculpture are symbolic of the idea that no matter where we are from, no matter our ethnicity, our race, or our colour, our roots will always be a part of us. Behind the figure there is the map of Iowa. This represents how different ethnicities can live comfortably and happily in Des Moines, Iowa." Garza has said before that her working content is based on social issues through the eyes of a Latina woman. She says that the main reason she makes art is because she wants to help the community, to solve issues and to raise awareness. Participants from this residency hail from other institutions from across the country. Garza said that the stipend she received helped her cover travel costs to and from Iowa. Photos provided by Alondra Garza For more information about Alondra Garza's work, visit: Alondra Garza And for all other updates about our student, faculty and alumni, follow our: Facebook Page Instagram Categories All Professional Practices Student Activities