Surviving Anxiety, 2018. Drawing, markers, 19" x 24" inches each
A series of self-portraits in drawing delves into the complexities of mental and emotional strain, exploring themes of compulsion and repetition. Throughout the series, the marpacífico (red hibiscus) subtly emerges and fades within the landscapes of the drawings. This flower, which grows wild on the streets of Cuba where Yali Romagoza grew up, serves as a recurring motif, symbolizing beauty, femininity, and independence. For Romagoza, the marpacífico represents a deep connection to her Cuban heritage as a source of strength and empowerment. Through these works, she embarks on an introspective journey to uncover and reclaim the elements of her cultural identity that sustain her resilience and autonomy.