A Gap in the Fence

A Gap in the Fence - Pencil    Silvana Siudut Copyrigthed

I did this pencil drawing some time ago. My brother was in the Army stationed in La Paz, Comayagua, Honduras and he spent time in this orphanage. They - the Army- used to visit every Thursday, and delivered food, water, clothes, and other supplies. This was back in 2000 and these children are teenagers now and just like back then, as of today, I do not know who they are or where they are now, or if they are even alive.

Just like then my heart goes out to them and all the children of this world that are suffering. I did some other renderings and a painting of others in this orphanage. Many of these children had to be in the infirmary in isolation-“They had malaria.”

The fence a symbol of protection against potential kidnappers makes the all thing even sadder. Looking at their little faces, I had and have the feeling that they are blessed with what always protects children: Innocence and adaptation.

Somehow, I was compelled to do this drawing and a painting. The way I figure it: "They do not know me from a hole in the wall, but I, seeing their pictures and according to what my brother told me, know of them!" And with my art and heart I told them "I am thinking about you dear little ones!" Maybe someday there is the hope that any of them may recognize themselves in the artwork and understand that my prayers and thoughts are with them. I wanted to pay homage to these children and the many others like in the world. There is in fact a “Gap in the fence” and the last child in the left shows is face clearly through it. Maybe someday the “Gap in the fence” will be big enough so that they can freely walk through it into a much better world.

Special thanks to the United States Army and the private benefactors that help and support them.