Sunka Wakan (2007) by José Bedia is an etching and engraving measuring 88 × 114 cm, part of an edition of 50. The composition features silhouetted figures on horseback set beneath a monumental, semi-transparent outline of a larger horse dominating the upper register. The title, which translates from Lakota as "sacred dog"—a traditional term for horse—reflects Bedia’s deep engagement with Indigenous American cosmology and spirituality. Rendered with raw lines and an earthy palette, the work blends narrative, myth, and ritual, capturing the symbolic weight of the horse as a conduit between the earthly and the spiritual.
José Bedia (Cuba, 1959) is a Cuban contemporary artist whose work bridges African, Caribbean, and indigenous spiritual traditions. Known for his dynamic paintings and installations, Bedia explores themes of migration, ritual, and cultural identity. His art is showcased in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Smithsonian Institution.
EtchingEtching is a technique where a design is created on a metal surface by using a strong acid or mordant to eat away the unprotected parts of the metal, leaving the desired pattern in relief (intaglio). In modern art and manufacturing, different chemicals may be used depending on the material being etched.
Sunka Wakan (2007) by José Bedia is an etching and engraving measuring 88 × 114 cm, part of an edition of 50. The composition features silhouetted figures on horseback set beneath a monumental, semi-transparent outline of a larger horse dominating the upper register. The title, which translates from Lakota as "sacred dog"—a traditional term for horse—reflects Bedia’s deep engagement with Indigenous American cosmology and spirituality. Rendered with raw lines and an earthy palette, the work blends narrative, myth, and ritual, capturing the symbolic weight of the horse as a conduit between the earthly and the spiritual.
José Bedia (Cuba, 1959) is a Cuban contemporary artist whose work bridges African, Caribbean, and indigenous spiritual traditions. Known for his dynamic paintings and installations, Bedia explores themes of migration, ritual, and cultural identity. His art is showcased in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Smithsonian Institution.
I see myself as a kind of anthropologist. I do field work, I collect things and take notes — and then the ideas start to come out.
- José Bedia
José Bedia (b. 1959, Cuba) is a Cuban artist known for his abstract painting style, deeply influenced by spirituality and primitive cultures. Bedia began his studies at the Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes in Cuba, where he developed a unique artistic approach that often explores the conflict between machines and nature. Since the late 1970s, he has participated in numerous collective exhibitions, and his work is featured in many museums across the United States. While not aligned with any specific movement, Bedia was part of the 80's Generation group of Cuban-American artists, who focused on Afro-Cuban devotional practices. Another notable artist from this group is Ana Mendieta. In addition to his paintings, Bedia also creates sculpture installations that reflect his deep interest in primitive cultures, further showcasing his diverse artistic range.(Artist website)
Latin American Art is a style which takes inspiration from its culture, society, politics, native traditions, religions and landscape. Op-Art and Kinetic Art figure prominently in Latin artworks. Colors in Latin American compositions are often bold. Latin American artists work in all media and movements.