Childbirth, violent death, and the quiet nature between it all is exactly what Ana Mendieta explored through her work and tragically reflected in the story of her life.
Mendieta was born in Cuba in 1948, but at age 12 she was sent to America with her sister, Raquelin. It would be 5 years before the two sisters would be reunited with their mother. Their father was taken as a political prisoner for disagreeing with Castro. It would be another 8 years before they would see their father again.
She first began exploring the female form at the University of Iowa in the 70’s. She originally explored performance with blood in pieces like Body Work, 1974 and Untitled (Rape Scene), 1973 before turning towards nature. Her pieces explore femininity in its rawest form. She evokes themes of childbirth, worship, a connection with nature, ritual and our place as humans in this world. Her inspiration of Tanin cave etchings and female effigies is fervently apparent.
Her most recognizable works are the pieces from her ‘Silueta’ series. These images depict a vague human form outline made from earthly materials. Something I love about this series is how far it can push the brain to recognize a human form. These works are also inherently ephemeral. Very few (if anyone) other than Mendieta herself are able to see these works in person. The majority of her audience has to observe her art through the resulting images.
As with many artists, her work gained a greater historical significance upon her death. Mendieta Was found dead after falling from her 34th floor New York apartment. Her husband was tried for pushing her out the window after an argument, but he was acquitted of all charges. Mendieta's death sparked controversy amongst the art world and rallied feminist support. Through all of Mendieta phenomenal works, it is tragic she is remembered for her death. She spent her entire art career (and arguably life) questioning the treatment of women. 
In the end her legacy will one that fought for the equality of women. Her art helps shed light onto issues often unspoken and unseen. Her work has deeply inspired me and to approach my work with an underlying sense of softness and reconnection with our Mother Nature. Her exploration of matriarchal history helps her artwork stand out as a reconnection to womanhood in a patriarchal world.