My inspiration for this collection is an Afro-Brazilian religion, with roots in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Millions of Africans were brought against their will to be traded and forced into slavery in Brazil. These salves were forced to convert to Christianity and to abandon their native culture and religion. In spite of the danger and the threat of punishment, and under these trying circumstances, a new religion emerged.

“Candomble” is a religion comprised of Fon, Yuruba, and Bantu tribal culture, along with Christianity and indigenous Brazilian religions. The religion and its disciples were hounded and persecuted for many years but today number more than 2 million, located primarily in Salvador, Bahia.