Cuban-American artist Ana Mendieta worked in land art, sculpture, and performance. Her art addresses themes such as violence against women and displacement due to political upheaval.

Born in Havana, Mendieta was brought to the United States in childhood as part of an asylum program following the Cuban Revolution. She grew up in Iowa and attended college there before moving to New York City in the late 1970s. There, Mendieta aligned herself with feminist movements and artmaking.

In Mendieta’s “earth-body works” she explored the connection between her body and nature to investigate death and the human condition. Her well-known Silueta series included temporary earth art documented through photography and video. These works include natural elements such as soil, fire, and flowers, often hinting at Mendieta’s connection to the earth. The artist passed away in a tragic accident at age 36. Her powerful works continue to inspire contemporary artists today.