The Westport Arts Center (WAC) is set to present “Two Steps Forward: Contemporary Cuban Art,” an exhibition of work by emerging and established Cuban artists.
Artist Jacqueline Brito’s “The Fleet (La Flota),” (oil, glass, and silver leaf on canvas, 2009) is among works to be displayed. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
An opening reception will be held Friday, April 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.
The exhibit of works collected via trips to Cuba over the past decade by Greenwich residents Terri and Steven Certilman, runs through June 4.
“The unique political, social and economic conditions in Cuba have combined to catalyze what may be the world’s highest concentration of artistic talent,” said Steven Certilman.
“Their works are as diverse as the country’s rich cultural heritage. It is said that the eyes are the windows of the soul. Art is the window to the Cuban soul.”
According to WAC officials, the exhibit explores Cuban identity, its diverse cultural heritage, the political climate and its resulting geographical isolation and emigration.
“The works are expressions of the soul, beauty, and fortitude of the Cuban people, and how they have met and overcome the circumstances imposed upon their lives,” the WAC announcement said.
Artist Franklin Alvarez’s “Shortcut II” (watercolor on paper, 2015) is also featured in the exhibit. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
The “Two Steps Forward” title refers to the current political and artistic climate in Cuba and the thaw in relations with the United States, event planners said.
They said the lifting of travel and trade restrictions between the two countries has allowed artists to have access to more resources and to gain more exposure.
The artists represented in the exhibition include: Abel Barroso; Luis Enrique Camejo; Manuel Mendive; Juan Roberto Diago; Jose Roberto Fabelo; and Kcho.
Critics say Barroso’s wooden sculptures and intricately constructed mixed media works made of pencil shavings are witty and humorous commentaries on the economic situation.
Kcho’s images of precariously stacked rafts refer to the desire and the risks involved in fleeing from one’s circumstances.
Fabelo’s monumental and iconic “Mermaid’s Dream” depicts a sleeping figure, Cuba, detached from reality and surrounded by drifting boats.
The exhibit coincides with WAC’s Saturday, May 7 “Club Havana” Gala at Westport’s Vespa Restaurant.
Artist Abel Barroso Arencibia’s “Green Card,” (mixed media, wood and paper, 2014) will also be on display. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Contributed photo
The event will celebrate the unique and diverse culture of Cuba, immersing guests in the island country’s rich and expressive arts heritage, its food and drinks, and its music, an announcement said.
“Guests will experience an up-close view of retro automobiles provided by Dragone Classic Motorcars & Auctions, hone their cigar-rolling skills with demonstrations provided by the president of La Rosa Cubana Cigars, dance to Jay Prince Music’s lively mix of Cuban-inspired and contemporary music, and create their own photo shoot in a “Club Havana”-themed setting,” it said.
Howard J. Aibel and Elizabeth Strick will be honored for their significant contributions to WAC and the greater arts community.
For further information, call the Westport Arts Center at (203) 222-7070 or visit westportartscenter.org.
