Introduction

From an American perspective Cuba is a country we know little about, and one that is mired in political mystery.  Yet beyond the geopolitical straits lies a people that is rich in culture, both historical and modern.  This exhibit, based on a recent journey to this fabled island, attempts to illuminate a bit of light on Cuban culture through the lenses of poetry, travel photography and the fine arts.

Cuban contemporary art went through a critical change in the early 90's.  With the collapse of the soviet Union, Cuba lost it's main supporter and trading partner, and as a result had to liberate it's fiscal policies.  As a result the country adapted a dual economy, one run by the weakened Cuban peso and a newer one based on the American dollar.  The red, white and blue colors chosen for the exhibition title above serve as a metaphor for this collusion; while Americans will identify with their flag, Cubans will also identify with their flag, having identical colors. 

Another crucial element effecting the arts is Cuba's long standing advanced education system, which has trained artists in technique as well as conceptual art theory.  The upshot of these and other factors is a heartfelt, sophisticated and thriving contemporary art scene- one that truly surprises art aficionados experiencing it for the first time.

 

 

 

 

Photo Essay

 

From the urban polyrhythm of Havana to Remedios, a vibrant colonial town that time has forgotten

 

 

View the

artworks

Poetry

 

The lyrical words

of nationally renowned poet Omar Rodríguez García