In the Artist’s Own Words
“These photographs are of the indigenous Maleku people of Costa Rica. The Maleku have lived in the Guanacaste region of northern Costa Rica for hundreds of years. Their population was once immense, but now they number just 600. As Costa Rica becomes more developed, the Maleku are struggling to maintain their culture and language. Art is often used as a method to maintain and to teach their history and traditions. Below are some of the messages the Maleku have for the people of the United States.”
—Leah Breen
“Me gustaria que todos los habitants de los Estados Unidos ayuden a las personas en todos los aspectos. No racismo, no guerra, no hambre.”
“I would like for all of the American people to help others in all aspects. No racism, no war, no hunger.”
—Alicides Elizondo
“Ayude mas a las paise pobres para que ellos puedan salir de la pobresa.”
“The United States should do more to help poorer countries so that they can leave poverty.”
—Dagoberto Elizondo Castro
“Mantengamos siempre la unión entre ambas naciones; y que todos son muy especiales.”
“We should always maintain a union between our nations; we are both special.”
—Oscar Quiros
“Quiero ver un pais lleno de paz y tranquilidad.”
“I want to see a country full of peace and tranquility.”
—Max Elizondo Castro
“Nos sentimos muy felices por el apoyo que nos brinda a nuestra comunidad y quiero decirles que siempre estaran en nuestros corazones de todos los Malekus.”
“We feel very happy for your help, and we would like to give a toast. I want to tell you that you all will always be in the hearts of the Malekus.”
—Sulay Quiros