Mending Wall: Overcoming Borders with Grappling Hooks

Breaking Down Barriers with Innovative Design

Mending Wall draws its inspiration from the border wall prototypes constructed in 2017 in San Diego, California, just across the border from Tijuana, Mexico. While the relationship between the U.S. and Mexico has had its challenges, the two countries share a history of successful bilateral relations. Despite the threat of physical barriers, the connection between the two nations remains unbreakable.

What sets Mending Wall apart is its unique approach to addressing the issue of border walls. Each grappling hook is specifically designed to conquer a corresponding prototype of the proposed border wall. By showcasing the practicality of climbing a wall and symbolizing the poetic overcoming of divisive global borders, Mending Wall challenges the notion of physical barriers.

The materials used in Mending Wall directly reference the wall prototypes. Some hooks are made from steel, others from concrete, and some from a combination of both. The silhouettes are fabricated from ¼ inch thick steel, while the grappling hooks are made from rebar, a material commonly used in the casting of superior concrete structures. The powder-coated colors of the hooks are inspired by native Mexican corn, adding a touch of cultural significance to the design. The exposed welds and fabrication methods pay homage to the labor that went into building the prototypes.

Measuring at varying dimensions of 12" x 14" x 10", each grappling hook represents the top of one of the eight proposed border wall prototypes. By abstracting the wall prototypes into desktop-scale objects, Cardenas successfully captures their essence without losing their intent. This creative solution overcame the challenge of representing 30-foot border walls in a smaller form.

The Mending Wall project began in August 2017 in Chicago and was completed in March 2018. It was exhibited at Salone del Mobile 2018 as part of the Potluck Collection presented by The School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Rossana Orlandi.

Recognized for its ingenuity and creativity, Mending Wall was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2019. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate resourcefulness, technical skill, and a commitment to improving quality of life. By incorporating art, science, design, and technology, Mending Wall contributes to making the world a better place.

Through its thought-provoking design, Mending Wall challenges the notion of physical barriers and highlights the enduring connection between nations. It serves as a reminder that no wall or president can change the deep-rooted ties that exist between countries.