Redefining identities in art through Santeria

Beginning with a basic definition of what an identity is, this research provides a connection between Santeria, as religion and Afro-Cuban folklore, and identity for a better understanding of the works of Cuban migrant artists. Following a general conclusion that identity is not stable, the question that becomes essential is, what happens during migration? By explaining what Santeria is and how it became an important religion in Latin America, the resea~ch concludes that it is more than a religion or folklore. Santeria is a way of life, a way or representing and preserving the Afro-Cuban heritage and cultural identity. In an effort to maintain their roots, the African slaves in Cuba used the religion as a source of preservation that aided their sense of belonging and survival needs. Today, the religion has b~come an inspirational source for artists such as Wilfredo Lam, Ana Mendieta, Raquelin Mendieta, and Juan Boza. These migrating artists used Santeria as a form of portraying cultural and ethnic identities. Furthermore, using these artists as example, the research concludes that a migrant artist may create their personal visual language as he or she defines his or her identity