Urban Shrines: Religious Offerings in Miami’s Metropolitan Landscape (2015-2020)
In the summer of 1978, an article titled “Neighbors irate over family’s shrine” appeared in the Miami Herald, highlighting tensions in South Miami over a Cuban family's garden altar. This incident underscored the sociocultural shifts unfolding in Miami's urban landscape due to Cuban immigration, a trend that later extended countywide.
As Miami evolved into a cultural melting pot, expressions of faith became visible beyond traditional Latin neighborhoods, reflecting a diverse tapestry of beliefs and traditions. Notably, the cults of Santa Barbara and San Lázaro, syncretized with Yoruba religious practices like Santería, emerged in front yards across Miami-Dade County.
From 2015 to 2020, I documented this phenomenon through photography, aiming to spark dialogue about the intersection of migration and religion. Beyond merely depicting urban transformation, these images delve into the historical roots of migration, offering intimate glimpses into the stories of individuals and communities. Ultimately, they prompt reflection on society's complex relationship with religion, economics, and movement.
