Tampa Brews & Havana Roots

This experimental drawing explores my identity as a first-generation Cuban American, blending my heritage with the vibrant, multicultural landscape of Tampa. Using Cuban coffee as a medium, I capture the richness of Latin cultures that shape my story. The image of my father smoking a cigar honors past generations, while my family’s last name grounds the piece in personal history. Elements like the buildings of Cabaiguán and the roosters of Ybor City evoke both Cuba and Tampa, celebrating the fusion of these intertwined worlds. Through this work, I reflect on the resilience of the immigrant experience and the legacy that continues to shape me.