Havana Habana – Black and White

In “Havana – Habana,” I invite the viewer to immerse themselves in a dynamic cultural context that transcends reality to reflect on it. My work originates from expressive paths that escape everyday life, evoking a sense of familiarity and belonging. This title not only reiterates the name of the city but also reflects the dualism between Havana as a market product (“La Habana”) and its genuine identity lived by Cubans (“La Habana”).

This play of dualities is similar to culturally iconic phrases like “New York, New York,” which encapsulate the essence of a place and its multiple meanings. I capture this dichotomy by representing Havana both from the internal perspective of its inhabitants and from the external view of visitors. The city, with its vibrant tropical colors and rich architecture, including balconies and portals, becomes an omnipresent and distinctive symbol. The phrase “There is no Havana without balconies and portals” emphasizes the inseparability of these elements from the visual and cultural identity of the city.

My birth date, November 16, coincides with the commemoration of the founding of Havana, adding a personal and historical nuance to my work. The annual ritual of walking three times around the ceiba tree and attending mass at the Havana Cathedral becomes an act of faith and a symbol of the infinite cycle of life, represented in the work through the circular format.

Visually, “Havana – Habana” resembles a mandala, with colors and patterns that evoke the concentric and fractal structure of the universe. Mandalas, which symbolize unity, harmony, and infinity, bring a sense of pragmatism to the mystical and spiritual, resonating with my intimate relationship with my hometown. This composition not only embellishes the work but also enriches its discourse, offering multiple layers of interpretation about the identity, belonging, and continuous transformation of Havana.