Rigo León, one of the creative minds behind the mural dedicated to El Taiger in Miami, executed by young artist Reinier Villa Herrera on a wall along Calle Ocho, emphasized that the artwork represents far more than a tribute to the Cuban reggaeton artist who passed away on October 10. On his Instagram account, León shared insights into how this large-scale painting came to be and the symbolism they infused into it.
"This mural isn't just a tribute to El Taiger; it's a celebration of love and peace, honoring his children and family who mourn his loss and mental well-being," Rigo León remarked.
He recounted, "Just days after José's passing, my long-time friend of over 25 years, Nelson Martínez, reached out to me, asking if I could paint a mural in his honor at El Santo on Calle Ocho, a spot José loved. Although I had previously painted for them, I had a planned trip. I told him it would be an honor, but I wouldn't be in the country. Before leaving for my pilgrimage to Bosnia, I collaborated with Reinier Villa, a rising young Cuban artist and a fan of El Taiger's music. Together, we crafted the mural design. In a few days, everything was ready. Reinier Villa meticulously executed the design, and I'm proud and grateful for the love and dedication he invested in such a short time."
The artist expressed, "It's heartbreaking to lose a friend or family member, regardless of the circumstances. We are all equal in the eyes of God, and no one should judge another. Everyone deserves second and third chances. May God bless him, for all He wants is for you to have a pure heart."
The mural features El Taiger's smiling face, alongside the initials LBMA and the phrase "La tranka de Cuba," both of which held deep significance for him. Fans, friends, and colleagues have flocked to the site, leaving their signatures and messages for the beloved Cuban reggaeton artist.