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Immigrant experience reflected in Canadian painter's work

By Marlene Naanes, amNewYork Staff Writer | MNaanes@am-ny.com

April 17, 2008

Portraits of a Canadian senator, a diplomat for Kazakhstan, and artists from around the world -- in all, a collection of 60 watercolor paintings -- is Katherine Dolgy Ludwig's testament to the immigrant experience.

With art supplies and her 12-year-old daughter Sofia in tow, Dolgy Ludwig tried to cross the U.S.-Canadian border early last year to participate in an art fellowship in New York City. A U.S. border guard turned her away.

"As a Canadian it shocked me when I was seen as a foreigner -- we're like your little brothers and sisters over there," said Dolgy Ludwig, an architect and artist who had crossed the border countless times before.

Dolgy Ludwig eventually was granted a short entry to find a New York lawyer who would help her enter the United States. She also e-mailed everyone she knew and received about 80 letters of support for her visa application. After receiving her visa four months later, she began painting everyone who helped her.

Thursday night, Dolgy Ludwig's work will be shown at A.I.R. Gallery in Chelsea as part of the city's Immigrant Heritage Week this week. Other events celebrating immigrants include theatrical productions, panel discussions and dance recitals.

"It is so appropriate that there be an exhibit ... that highlights the importance of opening our doors to give people the opportunity to fulfill their dreams," said Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs Commissioner Guillermo Linares.

Dolgy Ludwig does not hold any hard feelings toward the guard who initially turned her away. When she heads back to Canada later this year, she said she'll ask him to sit for a portrait.

"I came to New York knowing no one, and because of him I now know hundreds and hundreds of people," she said.