By Paula Henriquez
While it’s true that there are a large number of unknown artists in Cuba, especially in Havana, I’d like to explain that the main reason for this post is to follow up on this artist and her work which previously won over the curiosity and concern of some of Havana Times’ readers. It’s also an invitation, in one form or another, for other professionals on the art scene to break away from their fears and the “secrecy” which they’ve kept for years and to finally expose their truth, what they lack and therefore enter the limelight.
Going back to my subject, let me tell you that her most recent series of papier mache (a paste made out of glue, paper and water which takes on the artist’s desired form when it dries and hardens) sculptures aims to highlight a number of experiences of the elderly here, including their daily routine and deeply-ingrained habits. Some of the photos taken show men and women reading the newspaper, sitting in a park or simply walking along the street.
I walk around a lot every day and while I’m wandering, I see a lot of people. Almost all of them are over 60, including myself. I find it funny how we each have a routine which keeps us busy and in touch with society. I like to join these activities and learn more about this morning gathering that defines us. That’s when I got the idea that every one of us has a lot to discuss in terms of artistic creation. That’s why I decided to study them from the inside and the outside. I would sit down and watch them run their errands, the queue to buy the paper every morning, meeting up to do exercise, etc…
Is that what this series of sculptures represents?
Pay a tribute to yourselves?
Yes, for living in a country where there are a lot of shortages and, even still, we continue to survive and find a daily space for ourselves. A tribute because, and now I’m talking not about me personally, seniors people deserve admiration and respect and a lot of the time they don’t get it. I wanted to make a point about the fact that we elderly still exist, we still make up a part of this world, this country, this city, and we still have a lot to offer, in all respects.
On the other hand, this series also hopes to become a portrait of early morning in Cuba, that of senior citizens, the Cuba which is sometimes ignored by others, of young people, in their early morning rush to get to work.
Tell us a little more about the technique you’ve used…
What will this exhibition be called and how many figures are you intending on making?
Well, I think this series will be called “The Indispensables” and up until now, I’ve thought about making 17 sculptures, I’m already working on the last few now. I think it will be something new and original, at least for me.
I still don’t have a date for the opening but I think it will be very soon and if things continue to go well, it will be held at the Wilfredo Lam gallery in Marianao, which is found inside Marianao’s amphitheater. I hope it is and I hope you like it…
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