See-saws bring fun and unity to the U.S.-Mexico border

In light of tensions between the United States and Mexico over the handling of Central American migrants, two California architects recently devised a creative way to children from both countries together — even if a wall separates them.

Ronald Rael and Virginia San Fratello, founders of architecture studio Rael San Fratello, installed the “Teetertotter Wall,” a project that consists of three see-saws along the border of Sunland Park in New Mexico.

“One of the most incredible experiences of my and [San Fratello]’s career bringing to life the conceptual drawings of the Teetertotter Wall from 2009 in an event filled with joy, excitement, and togetherness at the borderwall,” Rael wrote on Instagram Monday. “The wall became a literal fulcrum for U.S.-Mexico relations and children and adults were connected in meaningful ways on both sides with the recognition that the actions that take place on one side have a direct consequence on the other side.”

 

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One of the most incredible experiences of my and @vasfsf’s career bringing to life the conceptual drawings of the Teetertotter Wall from 2009 in an event filled with joy, excitement, and togetherness at the borderwall. The wall became a literal fulcrum for U.S. – Mexico relations and children and adults were connected in meaningful ways on both sides with the recognition that the actions that take place on one side have a direct consequence on the other side. Amazing thanks to everyone who made this event possible like Omar Rios @colectivo.chopeke for collaborating with us, the guys at Taller Herrería in #CiudadJuarez for their fine craftsmanship, @anateresafernandez for encouragement and support, and everyone who showed up on both sides including the beautiful families from Colonia Anapra, and @kerrydoyle2010, @kateggreen , @ersela_kripa , @stphn_mllr , @wakawaffles, @chris_inabox and many others (you know who you are). #raelsanfratello #borderwallasarchitecture

Una publicación compartida por Ronald Rael (@rrael) el 28 de Jul de 2019 a las 11:22 PDT