Composition 

Wifredo Lam made this ink and crayon drawing on paper titled ‘Composition’ in 1962. Lam was of mixed heritage: European, African, and Chinese, and his art explores the intersection of these identities, particularly in relation to Cuba’s history of colonialism and slavery. Lam developed a visual language that merged Cubist abstraction with the symbolism of Afro-Cuban religions, like Santería. Notice how the spiky and fragmented shapes evoke both the natural world and the spiritual realm. These figures embody a sense of hybridity, reflecting the complex cultural landscape of Cuba. Lam said his work was, "an act of decolonization" which sought to reclaim and celebrate the contributions of marginalized communities. Ultimately, ‘Composition’ is a powerful statement about cultural identity, resistance, and the enduring legacy of colonialism. It invites us to consider the ways in which art can challenge dominant narratives and amplify the voices of those who have been historically silenced.