We need a Bigger Whistle is a very large whistle……much larger than you think. This whistle is constructed from recycled tin cans….mostly the tin can bottoms.
In 2026, the whistle became a tool of resistance and a symbol of solidarity against ICE in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Using tin can bottoms for the side of the whistle, and using tin cans to fabricate this whistle in oversized proportions, the piece speaks to the enormity of the problems surrounding both legal and illegal immigration in the United States.
Rather than pursuing legal pathways to citizenship for the people already living and working here, the current 47 administration policy has deepened the crisis, fostering a culture of fear that has led to documented cases of injury and death.
The consequences extend beyond the individuals directly targeted: entire sectors of the American economy, particularly agriculture and construction, rely heavily on immigrant labor, and the resulting workforce disruption has left industries scrambling and communities destabilized.
At the bottom of the page are a number of fabrication images. Look on my Instagram to see me with the whistle.
Dimensions: 20” length x 8” ht. x 6” depth
This page is under construction….with more images and commentary about this artwork coming soon.
All of my work is stamped with the title of the artwork, my name, and hallmark with the date. I put this on the bottom of the whistle so it not distracting when on display.
Fabrication images for “We Need a Bigger Whistle”
The images in this album about fabrication need to be reorganized. Work for Harriete on another day. I also have more images.
