This collection of photographs and field notes documents a pivotal research trip to Cuba in 2017, focusing on Havana, its outskirts, and the colonial city of Trinidad. As a Cuban-American raised in Miami, the journey marked a critical step in confronting the layered histories and emotions that define my relationship with the island. For two years leading up to the trip, I delved into the study of hybridized religions, particularly those practiced within the Cuban diaspora. This research ignited a desire to connect with the traditions' origins and gain a deeper understanding of their lived expressions. The decision to visit Cuba drew disapproval from relatives, reflecting the enduring tensions within Miami’s Cuban-American community. Despite these reservations, I felt compelled to engage directly with the complexities of my history and heritage.

These images reflect Cuba’s multifaceted cultural landscape, shaped by centuries of reinvention. Accompanying the photographs are field notes documenting the insights gained from my encounters with people, places, and rituals. These notes explore observations on Cuba's religious practices, cultural traditions, and everyday life. They also serve as a personal reflection on the knotty ties between Cuba and the United States, particularly through the lens of the Cuban-American experience.

The photographs in this collection go beyond visual documentation; they serve as tools for inquiry and personal narrative. Through this project, I aim to share a perspective that highlights the complexity and resilience of Cuban life while bridging cultural and generational divides. This journey was both a research expedition and a personal reckoning. It challenged the inherited assumptions of my upbringing and expanded my perspective on Cuba’s cultural and historical tapestry. The resulting photographs and field notes stand as a testament to this transformative experience, exploring the evolving relationship between myself and the island.