Justice
Luis Alfonso Jimenez, Eagle, 2003, polychrome fiberglass, 55 x 78 x 61 in. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2011.31. © Estate of Luis A. Jimenez, Jr. / Licensed by Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. Photography by Edward C. Robison III.
Additional Resources
Luis Alfonso Jimenez
Eagle
- Describe the imagery in this sculpture. What might this object reveal about the artist and the culture in which it was created?
The eagle in Luis Alfonso Jimenez’s work cuts a menacing profile, fitting for an animal meant to symbolize the strength of two nations. Born in El Paso to a Mexican father and American mother, Jimenez’s works often underscored his Mexican-American heritage. Here a bald eagle, specifically associated with the United States, stands atop a cactus as a rattlesnake slithers along the back of the work—both references to the Mexican flag.
- Jimenez identified as Chicano; his father was an undocumented immigrant and his mother was both in the United States. How do you think this sculpture speaks to his heritage?
- What happens when cultures collide? What aspects of this work reflect American imagery or history? What aspects reflect Mexican imagery or history?
- How does your identity help determine your perception of justice? How does justice differ between countries and cultures?
Content Contributors
Exhibition sponsored by Kenneth C. Griffin
Learning and engagement programming for
We the People: The Radical Notion of Democracy is sponsored by:
Sarah and Ross Perot, Jr. Foundation | Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates, & Woodyard, P.L.L.C. | Johnny and Jeanie Morris, Bass Pro Shops | Alturas Foundation | Harriet and Warren Stephens, Stephens Inc. | Sotheby’s | Bob and Becky Alexander | Marybeth and Micky Mayfield | Lamar and Shari Steiger | Jeff and Sarah Teague / Citizens Bank | Arkansas Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities | Avis and Bill Bailey | Scarlett and Neff Basore | June Carter Family | Terri and Chuck Erwin | Jackye and Curtis Finch | The Harrison and Rhonda French Family | Jim and Susan von Gremp | Laurice Hachem | Shannon and Charles Holley | Valorie and Randy Lawson / Lawco Energy Group | Donna and Mack McLarty | Steve and Susan Nelson | Neal and Gina Pendergraft | Helen Porter | JT and Imelda Rose | Lee and Linda Scott | Stella Boyle Smith Trust, Catherine and Michael Mayton, Trustees | William Reese Company
