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Los pobres

Anahi Guzman-Barragan

Grade: 12

Card Number: 42

Refran: "Roaming alone in endless plight   

Lost echoes of hope in endless night"


Card Description: For my Loteria Card I wanted to share my thoughts on homelessness.   I chose homelessness as a subject matter because this has been the reality happening for many decades.  I chose dark colors since this Loteria card has a deep meaning.    The images in the piece represent that within a thriving city, there are people experiencing difficulties and challenges that often go unnoticed. For me personally, this card portrays a homeless woman, distant from the town center, struggling with voices in her head and seeking for help. She's at the edge of the streets and close by a trash can.   I want the audience to see the sharp difference between two sides of life within one picture. Behind the woman there are these towering buildings glowing with bright lights, representing success and wealth. On the other hand, there's a homeless woman struggling, sitting by a trash can with a cardboard sign seeking help. It's like seeing two different worlds in one frame: the successful city life and the challenging, overlooked realities of those who are struggling. This image serves as a powerful reminder about the vibrant cityscape that while prosperity shines brightly, there are individuals among us who urgently require our attention, support, and acts of kindness. It encourages us to reflect on empathy and recognize the pressing need to address the inequalities that continue within our communities.


Student Biography: My name is Anahi Guzman Barragan, and I am a senior at Santa Maria High School. I live in Santa Maria, California, with my mom, my dad, my two sisters, and my three brothers. My family is from Santa Maria, my parents were born in Oaxaca, Mexico. On my Loteria card, I chose to represent homelessness. What inspired me to draw my Loteria card was to raise awareness and educate others about the challenges faced by homeless individuals. I myself have three family members who are homeless. The artistic process was amazing and portrayed the real-life reputation of a homeless person. Life after high school: I am planning to attend college, aiming for a career as a traveling nurse or attorney, and balancing part-time or full-time work.

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