Layered Lives: The Art of Nine Contemporary Cuban Women from the Discoveries in Art – Certilman Family Collection

Cuba has a rich history of women artists who have made significant contributions to the country’s vibrant and diverse art scene. The artworks on view in this exhibition were created during the past 30 years and feature a selection of nine contemporary artists: Ariamna Contino, Aimée García Marrero, Rocío García de la Nuez, Alejandra Glez, Elsa Mora, Mabel Poblet Pujol, Sandra Ramos, Adislen Reyes, and Linet Sánchez Gutiérrez.

These women have explored various artistic mediums, styles, and themes, often breaking boundaries and challenging societal norms. Most of the female artists in the collection reflect upon their intense personal experiences and examine their identity within a strict social and political order. Their explorations are not merely internal, but also external, expressing a desire to transcend the physical and psychological constraints imposed upon them by their country’s restrictions and relative isolation as an island nation. Through different strategies and symbolism, they convey their anxieties, dreams, and visions, often quite literally weaving together histories about themselves and their homeland. Their prevalent use of mixed media — especially repurposed materials — reflects the resourcefulness that modern Cuban women have developed to thrive despite limited available materials.

Curated by Arianne Faber Kolb, PhD.
This exhibition is organized by Landau Traveling Exhibitions (Los Angeles, CA).