My “Orisha” sculptures are inspired by Afro-Cuban music. This music originated in western Africa and spread throughout the islands of the Caribbean and South and Central America. As the music spread, each culture melded their music with the Spanish and native music and dance. The masks and sculptures of this tradition often depict the Orishas, or spirits of the culture. The Orishas can be deities in the spirit world or humans who upon their death are recognized as deities due to their extraordinary feats. The masks are used in the various rituals which include music, song, costumes, and dance. These rituals are often celebrations of rites of passage or worship of ancestors. My sculptures are interpretations of traditional masks on a conga-shaped torso.

       The masks are blown and sculpted from inside the bubble, using colored glass powders and bit work. The torsos are blown with various murrini and cane techniques. The bases are cast glass with enamel colors. The pieces are assembled cold.