Death Be Gone

Anoint yourself in the spirit and stories of Miami. Step inside the vibrant, mystical world of Miami’s spiritual culture with Death Be Gone—a visually rich, thought-provoking book that brings the sacred and everyday together through the lens of anointing oils.

Created by Melody Santiago Cummings, with stunning photography and design by Seth Labenz and art direction by Molly Engle, this book captures the beauty, power, and quiet mysticism of these small but potent bottles. Each full-color portrait reveals a story—of belief, of heritage, of healing.

From the aisles of botanicas to sacred altars across the city, these oils are more than just fragrance—they’re intention made tangible.
Whether used for protection, love, prosperity, or yes—banishing death—each bottle holds a piece of a deeply rooted cultural practice that spans generations.

The book includes a compelling original essay by Dr. Martin A. Tsang, Head Librarian at the Cuban Heritage Collection, exploring the deep historical and spiritual significance of these oils within Miami’s rich Afro-Caribbean and Latinx traditions.

Death Be Gone is a love letter to spiritual resilience, to community, and to the unseen forces that shape our everyday lives.

Get anointed. Get inspired. Get the book.

Details 

• Paper cover
• 64 pages
• Includes:
  -1,401 word essay 
  -34 color pictures 
• The project was originated by Melody Santiago Cummings, with photography and design by Seth Labenz, and art direction by Molly Engle.
• The book features an original essay by Professor Martin A. Tsang, Phd., Head Librarian at the Cuban Heritage Collection at the University of Miami.