This vivacious vocal powerhouses career spanned continents, genres, and decades.
I knew I had to make the design for superstar Celia Cruz as dynamic as she was, Hemphillsaid.
Hemphill uses a combination of traditional clayrelief sculptureand 3D imaging software in her designs.
Celia Cruz Quarter, U.S. Mint
The performer’s style has also made an impact.
Several of herfavorite outfits, including aCuban Rumba dress, now belong to the Smithsonian.
(The image of George Washington on the reverse side was designed by Laura Gardin Fraser in 1932.)
The trumpet player, Pedro Knight, later became her husband and manager.
As a performer, I want people to feel their hearts sing and their spirits soar.
Cuban-American singer Celia Cruz is now the first Afro-Latina to be featured on a U.S. quarter.
American Women Quarters, U.S. Mint
Ritmo en el Corazon album cover.
Ritmo en el Corazón album cover. (Photo:Library of Congress)
