In the early 1990s, Martinez felt the need to unravel the culturally rich terrain of his South Texas and northern Mexican origins, through this exploration, his South Texas series was developed. The Scream in South Texas: La Llorona incorporates classic religious imagery and folklore by placing the mystical figure of La Llorona in the center of the frame, surrounded with softly lit Catholic candles, creating an altar-like scene. The story of La Llorona or “The Weeping Woman” has been told and retold for decades, and is often used as a warning for kids to stay away from bodies of water. She can also be understood as a woman who deals with loss, specifically the loss of children. By having a lack of realistic details in the face of La Llorona, the artist provides an opportunity for the viewer to empathize and contemplate the experience of grief, noting that melancholy knows no bounds. Some candles have inscriptions that honor South Texas Valley patron saint and curandero, Don Pedrito Jaramillo, known for his effective healing methods and charity to the community during the 20th century. His curative methods often involved using water and the number nine, such as nine days of treatment. Martinez honors these methods by including nine flowers below the face of La Llorona.