Curator’s Talk and Reception: Havana in Hyde Park Revisited – Surrealism

Please join us for a curator’s talk and reception with ArtsAmica Founder Holliey White, celebrating the exhibition: Havana in Hyde Park Revisited – Surrealism.

Presented by Artists-at-Large with longtime friends and collaborators at ArtsAmica –– Havana in Hyde Park Revisited – Surrealism –– delves into the world of Surrealist Cuban art, featuring paintings and drawings focused on dreams, the unconscious, the fantastical, and the unconventional.

Artists-at-Large and ArtsAmica have co-hosted recurring Havana in Hyde Park exhibits for many years and wanted to honor and celebrate one genre within this amazing work. Havana in Hyde Park Revisited – Surrealism
features some previously exhibited pieces along with some work not seen here before. ArtsAmica was established in 1996 and has been bringing artwork to the United States from Cuba since its inception. The organization works to support the artists of Cuba directly. Artists-at-Large has worked with ArtsAmica since 2002.

Presented by Artists-at-Large and ArtsAmica, Havana in Hyde Park Revisited – Surrealism is on display until March 31, 2025.

About Cuban Art

Cuban art is a vibrant and diverse expression of the island’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by its history, politics, and social changes. It encompasses a wide range of artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, music, dance, and performance.

Cuban art has evolved significantly since the colonial period, where European influences dominated. The early 20th century saw the emergence of modernism, with artists like Wilfredo Lam incorporating Afro-Cuban themes and surrealism into their work. The African diaspora has profoundly shaped Cuban art, particularly in music and visual arts. Artists often explore themes of identity, spirituality, and the blending of cultures through their work.

The Cuban Revolution of 1959 also had a significant impact on the art scene. The government promoted art as a means of fostering national identity and social change, leading to the establishment of institutions that supported artists. This era produced politically charged works that reflected revolutionary ideals.

Today, Cuban artists continue to gain international recognition. They experiment with various media, including installation and performance art. Artists like Tania Bruguera and Los Carpinteros challenge societal norms and explore themes of power, identity, and globalization. Key institutions, such as the National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana, play an essential role in preserving and promoting Cuban art. Galleries and cultural centers across the island also showcase both established and emerging artists.

Overall, Cuban art is a dynamic and evolving field that reflects the complexities of Cuban society, history, and culture, making it a unique and essential aspect of the global art landscape.

-Holliey White, ArtsAmica Founder

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