Taino Folklore and Folktales

The project I’m interested in creating next is based on Taino Folklore therefore I would like to take a closer look at what Folklore is and how it developed.


Folklores are directly influenced by culture. They are based on traditional customs, tales, sayings, dances, or art forms preserved among a people. These are passed on to new generations by oral literature of a society in various forms; such as myth, legend, folktale, song, proverb, and many others. The Tainos used dance and game ceremonies.


The Wiki definition addresses something I think is very important. It mentions superstitions.

Folktale: The tales, legends and superstitions of a particular ethnic population.

This is important because the very definition of Folktale states that they are known to be false, giving us a highly symbolic work. I love this because it gives the creator of a folktale the freedom to state a point through creative story telling.


Instantly I am reminded of Aesop Fables. When I was in elementary school I really enjoyed looking at the drawings in these books. The pictures were lovely to look at. I also remember that even at that very young age I “got” it. I knew these tales were not true but they were trying to tell me something. They were trying to teach me a lesson.


I wonder if that has something to do with the belief I have today: that it is an author’s duty to say something. I know I apply it to my work. All of my work, from my paintings to my writings are saying something. They are all expressions of an idea. When I am painting I go even deeper and focus on a particular emotion.


So in conclusion: folklore comes from a strong desire to teach. Knowing this will give me a great perspective as I delve in to research Taino society and their religion.