Children of Onan (2014 - 2016) is a provocative photographic series by Cuban artist Yanahara Mauri, exploring themes of eroticism, identity, and the multiplicity of being. Drawing on the biblical figure of Onan, whose act of coitus interruptus was condemned as a sin for preventing procreation, the series addresses the historical stigmatization of non-procreative sexual practices, often labeled as unnatural and perverse. Through a diverse range of imagery—from psychological portraits to conceptual studio work—Mauri delves into the complex emotions surrounding identity conflicts, such as fear, sadness, anger, and depression. The series serves as a metaphor that challenges the rigid, heteronormative constructs of sex, gender, and sexuality. By dissolving these traditional binaries, Mauri offers a compelling critique of societal norms and presents alternative perspectives that defy conventional classifications.

Yanahara Mauri (San Antonio de los Baños, Havana Province, Cuba, 1984) is a visual artist specializing in photography, based in Havana. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of Havana and later graduated from Tania Bruguera’s renowned Cátedra Arte de Conducta (Behavior Art School) in 2009. Mauri's work is noted for its raw and expressive exploration of identity, gender, and sexuality within the Cuban context. Her photography not only delves into the personal and societal struggles faced by transgender and non-binary individuals but also serves as a powerful form of activism, challenging societal norms and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Through her evocative imagery, Mauri provides a nuanced commentary on the fluidity of identity, highlighting the importance of visibility and inclusion for marginalized communities.