LAS TRES CARIDADES

Las Tres Caridades

Las Tres Caridades, a captivating painting measuring 68x72, this large artwork is a significant addition to the "Las Caridades" Series. This artwork beautifully portrays the harmonious relationship between island/indigenous religions and Catholicism, focusing on the three Caridades of Cuba: La Caridad Del Cobre, Ochun, and Yemaya. Through a skillful combination of symbolism, color, and artistic interpretation, the artist successfully captures the essence of these religious figures and their significance in both spiritual traditions.

The background of the painting, adorned with shades of pink, yellow, and light blue, serves as a visual representation of the three Caridades. Pink symbolizes La Caridad Del Cobre, the patroness of Cuba, known for her compassion and protection. Yellow represents Ochun, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, while light blue embodies Yemaya, the goddess of the sea and motherhood. These colors not only reflect the individual characteristics of each Caridad but also hold deep symbolism within both Catholicism and Santeria.

In this artwork, the artist has chosen to depict the women, including La Caridad Del Cobre, in a state of nudity. While it is rare to see La Caridad Del Cobre depicted in this manner, it is done to symbolize the unity and equality among the Caridades. By presenting them in their natural form, the artist emphasizes their shared sisterhood and the collective power they possess.

The women in the painting are adorned with symbols of both a square and an oval, represented by the colors gold, sky blue, violet, mamey, and aqua. The square symbolizes stability, structure, and the earthly realm, reflecting the organized nature of Catholicism. The colors gold and sky blue within the square further emphasize the divine and celestial aspects of spirituality. On the other hand, the oval represents fluidity, intuition, and the spiritual realm, reflecting the free-flowing nature of Santeria. The colors violet, mamey, and aqua within the oval symbolize spirituality, grounding, and the integration of the physical and metaphysical realms.

The artist's Cuban heritage and upbringing in Miami's Little Havana significantly influenced the creation of this painting. Growing up surrounded by the vibrant culture and rich spiritual traditions of Cuba, the artist developed a deep appreciation for the fusion of Catholicism and Santeria. This artwork serves as a homage to their roots, celebrating the diverse religious practices that have shaped their identity. The decision to depict the Caridades in a unified and equal manner, as well as the choice to incorporate nudity, reflects the artist's desire to challenge traditional representations and highlight the shared humanity and power of these revered figures.

In conclusion, Las Tres Caridades is a captivating artwork that beautifully combines the Santeria religion and Catholicism. Through the use of symbolism, color, and artistic interpretation, the artist successfully portrays the three Caridades and their significance in both spiritual traditions. This painting is not only a testament to the artist's talent but also a celebration of their Cuban heritage and the cultural richness of Miami's Little Havana.

68x72, Acrylic on canvas.

$7,000.00