Becky Field to discuss ‘Crying’ at Mariposa

A reception and brief talk by Becky Field will open the new exhibit, “Crying in the Wilderness: An Immigrant’s Journey in Detention,” at the Mariposa Museum & World Culture Center, 26 Main St. in Peterborough, Friday, Feb. 2, from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

“Crying in the Wilderness” highlights in images and words the experience of an asylum seeker in New Hampshire. Field is a photographer who specializes in exploring experiences of immigrant people in New Hampshire.

In 2018, an African man, “Antony” (a pseudonym) sought protection from death threats and violence in his warring country. He asked for asylum at the U.S. southern border. Although this was a legal request under U.S. immigration law, he was shackled, chained and jailed for two years.

In 2020, with COVID spreading in the jail, immigration authorities released Antony. He was moved to a private home in New Hampshire's Seacoast yet still denied free movement, and his movements were tracked through an ankle monitor. For the next year, Field photographed his life, chronicling the severe limitations imposed and the emotional toll of the ankle monitor.

Admission to the reception and exhibit is free to Mariposa members, with regular museum admission of $8 for adults and $6 for seniors charged for non-members. 

For information, visit mariposamuseum.org.