Rituales | lesinfin.art

Rituales: An Exploration of Faith in the Caribbean was inspired by the rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual traditions of Cuba and the Caribbean. This series explores the practice of rituals inherited through cultural mythology and spiritual beliefs, drawing inspiration from spiritual and religious practices rooted in indigenous and Afro-Caribbean origins.

This series was honored with an Artist Grant from the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance and

the City of St. Petersburg’s Office of Cultural Affairs.

10 Illustrations: A celebration of Caribbean spirituality.

Cuando Hablen Los Tambores - Rituales: An Exploration of Faith in the Caribbean. Illustration by Letisia Cruz.

1. Cuando Hablen Los Tambores

Regardless of our personal history or musical education, we know the power of percussion.

Cuando Hablen Los Tambores was inspired by the rhythm of ritual drums. The ancient origins of the drums speak to us. In surrendering to their rhythm, we transcend our bodies and become one with our movements.

Ink on paper
11x17

2. Con El Mar Dentro

You may know her as Yemayá, mother of the sea, mother of fish, goddess of the ocean, protector of children, patron of women, la Virgen de Regla, queen of witches, Mami Wata, la sirène, or any number of other names. But by any name, the sea is home.

To know her power is to understand her vastness. In the Caribbean, the ocean provides an economic lifeline. She serves as an indomitable force that has the power to both give and take. Common offerings to Yemayá include white flowers, fruit, and candles. Here she is seen holding the power of the ocean in the palm of her hand and cradling its storms within her.

Ink on paper
11x17

Con El Mar Dentro - Rituales: An Exploration of Faith in the Caribbean. Illustration by Letisia Cruz.

Bara Yucubia - Rituales: An Exploration of Faith in the Caribbean. Illustration by Letisia Cruz.

3. Bara Yucubia

Smoke ceremonies are ancient practices common across all cultures. In the Caribbean, offerings made to seek protection, blessings, or guidance as well as invocations that embrace the elements all commonly involve cigar and tobacco smoke.

This piece titled Bara Yucubia / Rain For The Plants was inspired by the essence of smoke and its use in rituals to invoke gods and nature.

Ink on paper
11x17