About the work

In 2013, I traveled to Sweden and Denmark for a study abroad program focusing on the history of Scandinavian design. I spent the semester studying concepts such as functionalism and minimalism, which greatly influenced me as an artist. As the descendent of both Swedish and Danish immigrants, I was fascinated by the culture they left behind. Towards the end of the trip, I had the opportunity to visit the town of Ballerup, Denmark, where my 4th-great grandparents lived before they immigrated to America in the 1850s. As I was exploring the town, I came across this ivy-covered wall next to the church where many of my ancestors' biggest life events would have taken place. Although I am not sure if this wall was there during their lifetime, the photo reminds me of everything they sacrificed in order to achieve the American dream.