Sussy Santana Uses Art for Healing, Community in Rhode Island

Several cultural projects and businesses are highlighting the rich traditions and contemporary expressions of Latin American art, music, and cuisine. Poet and cultural artisan Sussy Santana uses art as a tool for healing and community building, with projects honoring iconic women and fostering connection through workshops and exhibitions like El Museo de las Ancestras. In music, Spanish label Munster/VampiSoul reissues classic Colombian sounds from the 1960s, while artists continue exploring pop music inspired by Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Culinary traditions are celebrated at Chicago’s La Josie restaurant, which offers modern takes on Mexican flavors and culture. In Fort Myers, entrepreneurs Chris and Geri Andrews blend music and tradition in their award-winning Música tequila brand, where the aging process includes playing various music genres to enhance the spirit's quality. Additionally, the tango dance piece “Behind me, of women and tangos” explores feminine themes through characters from classic literature, emphasizing the emotional complexity of women's experiences.