The Afro-diasporic religions of the Americas, including Santería-Ifá, Candomblé, Umbanda, and Espiritismo, among others, have historically served as sites of cultural resistance and adaptation, blending African spiritual traditions with indigenous and colonial influences. Within these religious frameworks, there is a complex relationship with the natural world, viewing it as sacred and imbued with spiritual significance. This series is inspired by Celia Cruz’s album “Homenaje a Los Santos,” one of her earliest albums that paved the way for ceremonial “Santero” music. The title “Para Tú Altar” references a song in the album about the different types of flowers used to pay tribute to and honor the divine forces of Nature.

https://www.vic-toriaruiz.com/artworks-1/para-t-altar-las-fuerzas-divinas-de-la-naturaleza