Xavier Cortada, “Raices,” 72″ x 48″, acrylic on canvas, 2007

Raíces: shows a different picture of 16th century Florida. Half a century after Ponce de Leon first landed on its shores, Spanish families are beginning to settle in Florida. Although hardship is widespread, the outlook for settlement is hopeful. Catholic missions (represented by the pelican at the bottom right of the painting) are being established in Florida, creating a nexus between Spaniards and indigenous people. At the center of the painting, a family gazes at their newborn child. The family is integrated into a mangrove forest, its roots embracing and protecting them, much like community members do for one another in their new settlement. In the foreground, new mangrove seedlings sprout. Like the seedlings, Floridians of Hispanic and Latin American origin have begun to set their roots here as they will for centuries to come.

This painting along with “Conquistadores” were unveiled at the Governor’s Mansion during 2007 Hispanic Heritage Month. Click here to learn more.