When an Artist Dies, Who Owns Her Story?

Ana Mendieta was a renowned Cuban-born performance artist known for her "Silueta Series" and other provocative works exploring the relationship between nature and the human body. Her life was cut tragically short when she fell from the 34th-floor apartment in 1985. The circumstances surrounding her death have remained a contentious topic, with many believing her husband Andre was responsible. In recent years, Ana Mendieta's story has been revisited by writers and filmmakers, much to the chagrin of Raquel Cecilia Mendieta, the administrator of Ana Mendieta's estate and her maternal niece. 

Despite legal battles over the use of Ana Mendieta's imagery in films like "Suspiria," creators are not legally obligated to consult with Ms. Mendieta or the estate when creating works based on Ana's life. This lack of control has frustrated Ms. Mendieta, who wishes to protect her aunt's story and ensure it is portrayed accurately and respectfully. While Ana Mendieta's work continues to gain attention and admiration for its profound exploration of human connection to nature, the debate over who has the right to interpret and present her life story remains a complex and contentious issue.

For more information see Kate Dwyer “When an Artist Dies, Who Owns Her Story?”, The New York Times, March 2, 2024.

Special thanks to Joel C. Dobris (Professor of Law, UC Davis School of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.