Art of Devotion: The Santos Tradition of Puerto Rico

The exhibition was curated by guest curator Dorie Reents-Budet, Ph.D. and displays sacred carved Catholic images known as Santos de Palo, or “household wooden saints.” Originating in the 1500s with Franciscan friars seeking to convert the indigenous Taíno people, the tradition evolved amidst a complex historical backdrop.

During the Colonial Period, the Santos de Palo became essential elements of rural worship, as the isolated peasant population crafted their own holy figures due to a lack of access to priests and religious sculptures. Carved from local woods, particularly Spanish cedar, these small yet deeply symbolic artworks adorned humble home altars, embodying the faith and resilience of Puerto Rico’s population.

The Santos de Palo tradition evolved over centuries, incorporating artistic innovations influenced by Taíno and African traditions, as well as the unique beliefs and practices of Puerto Rico’s folk Catholicism. Despite the hardships faced by the carvers, who often worked as hard-scrabble farmers, the Santos de Palo emerged as a powerful expression of Puerto Rican cultural heritage, symbolizing the nation’s rich blend of Hispanic, Taíno/Carib, and African influences.

During the 1940s and 1950s, many Puerto Ricans immigrated to the United states and discovered a wealth of new artistic techniques. These new experiences enriched their art and brought newly found influences. Today, Santos de Palo remain integral to traditional religious rituals in Puerto Rico while also permeating contemporary art communities. The exhibition will showcase pieces created within the past five years, highlighting the ongoing evolution of this cultural tradition.

Through their spiritual significance and artistic craftsmanship, the Santos de Palo stand as enduring symbols of Puerto Rico’s national identity, reflecting its multicultural traditions, spiritual faith, and resilience in the face of adversity.