Santería, also called Lucumi or Orisha Worship by its practitioners, originated in Nigeria among the Yoruba people. It took shape in Cuba during and after the slave trade and reached North America through Afro-Caribbean immigration. As the fastest growing African-based religion in the United States, Santería has stimulated many publications, but none prior to this book noted the special significance of its art and artists.

In Santería Garments and Altars, for the first time, two distinguished folklorists and practitioners of the faith focus upon the artistry of garments and altars that are intrinsic to the worship. Detailed here is information about their design and creation, the artists who make them, and the importance of aesthetics as text in the religious celebration.